My course is 80 to 90% hands on. Lecture time is on opening day of each phase I spend 2 to3 hours on this and the rest of the time 15 to 20 minutes lecturing per day. The rest of class time is in lab. Is this the best way or how can I improve?

I am of the opinion that with smaller class sizes (Under 20) allows for more of an informal forum where I can utilize my professional work experiences as part of the lecture more often, and adult learners can share their experiences as well. With larger class groups the time to cover the given material in the syllabus takes up more time due to q & a, and covering the requirements.

I always have a hard time remembering that my way of learning is not best for everyone. What are some things that can be done to more quickly identify learning styles in a new group of students? I guess asking the students might be a way to find out. Thoughts?

On the first day, I explain what I want from the students, but I turn the tables on the students. I make them present what is needed. They must explain to me and make me understand that they understand.

When dealing with adult learners, the consensus seems to be that they have returned to school to "Make more money" however, this is not generally the case. More often than not, they have personal issues. Such as, completing something they have not acheived in the past due to personal issue....children, marriage, lack of resources. I genrally teach my classes differently than I would for indivdiduals who have recently graduated from high school, becasue these people are currently in the workforce, and have "Real life" experience to add to the class discussions. More often than not I end learning a considerable amount from them as well.

It can be difficult when utilizing a syllabus that is in place already for a particular course of study. By this I mean it is not tailored to your specific teaching style. For instance, some instructors have more "Real world" experience to apply to their courses, and do not rely soley on power point presentations, and textbook quotations. This being said, the instructor who has more experience can tailor class discussion topics, and projects to more relevant material that is currently occuring in society.

I use a variety of learning techniques in my class, this one would help with a multitude of learners.

I feel it is important to let the students know that you (as an instructor) are human too! I've seen students come into a class and tremble if they get called on to awnser a question, and in some cases just to talk in front of a group. Getting the students comfortable or relaxed in the class room situation is an important first step in the students success.

What methods do you use or will you use to keep your students motivated to achieve the required course goals? What do you or will you use to motivate them to achieve the required professionalism in the work environment they are entering?

One of the things we focus on in our school is "keyboard commands" with the application we teach. After several weeks, if the students are STILL using the mouse instead of key commands, I have them wear an "Uncle Sam"-style hat that I found for $2.00 at a local party-store. I placed a sign on the front of the hat that says "I used the mouse to switch edit tools" Any student guilty of the offense must wear the hat until our break-time. No student has ever felt intimidated by this, and it always seems to keep the others on their toes so they will not have to wear the hat! Just a quick idea for the forum.

Wanted to say first off good module in classroom and just people skills. I out of nervousness smile alot, so i guess im good in that department. But i know how moods affect classrooms and having to sort of steer it into a positive light. I think something thats hard to do and i always make sure to check myself on is not bringing outside problems or moods in the room. i try to just treat it like a hangout (by that i mean having fun) where im the host, attentions on me and im teaching something. PeAcE, Hec

A while back I got into the habit of carrying around a small 3X5 memo book in my front shirt pocket. It has been a life saver for me, I can very quickly write down important information I do not want to forget like a question a student asked that I need to find an answer to. It is also useful for keeping track of supplies and errands I need to run during a trip outside the class (I hate going back to a place I just came back from because I forgot something). The memo book has helped increase my overall efficiency at work.

I have taken the time over the last few days to watch some of my co workers preping for the class, I can see so many different ways that they bring themselfs into the class with how they are preparing for the day, for some it is a way to build themselves up and for others they go through the subject matter to make sure that they cover all the key points and to refresh the infomation in their minds. But no matter which way you plan you day you still have to bring your students into play so that you can insure that the subjects are cover for all to understand it.

On the first day I give the students an overview of the class and tell them my rules. I do not come on overly strong. I also tell them I am an adult, like they are and will treat them like an adult unless they act like children.

An an instructor and academic administrator, we have created First Day Check Off list to all of our students. We do this everytime a new module (every 5/8 weeks) starts. It is a simple, brief, concise checklist for both instructors and students. We highlight academic policies, procedures, expectations, academic requiremtns, student behavior, professionalism, attendance policies, etc. It made our life less stressful since all the intructors are in the same page as to what to be discussed with the students. Best practices to share.

I find that it is always a good idea to disclose something about yourself. Without getting too personal, this can be very effective is developing a rapport with your students.

First thing I ve learned as an instructor is that one has to know and learn thyself. Passion in teaching will only surface if this is really a true calling. An instrcutor may have all the knowledge and credentials in the field but being able to disseminate the information to the students is another story. Second thing, know thy students. Make it a game by memorizing students first names during the first week. Call their first name. This is the only way that students will know that they are valued in the classroom because they are known not only by the instructor but also by the students.

I have students fress out of high school and vet`s . the vet`s are more focus than the students just out of high school and this presents a challange.

Would'nt it be better to assess a student rather than test them.

Students really are only engaged about 12-15 minutes at a time. With that in mind the mini-lecture is a great way to deliver content.