Brandon Whittaker

Students learn best by having a varied experience in the classroom.  The first step for a successful student experience is to remind them what was taught or brief review from the previous lecture.  The next step is to use the various techniques of lecture to instill knowledge.  The next step is to have students engage in this material individually or in group mini projects that will allow students to engage in the material and help them understand why it is important and in what context.

The first day of class is also most students first impression of us.  Being professional, courteous and kind towards our students is a great first step.  Adding a brief ice breaker, letting students know a little about yourself and add a sprinkle of humor.  Finally explain how the class will be conducted and perhaps a brief lesson will complete the effect.

A classroom is only as good as the instructor.  When students come in and see the papers are organized, the materials are placed properly in the room, the instructor is looking ready and willing to begin the class, that is when students know they will have a great experience with the instructor.

Effective teaching is a complex and everchanging beast.  The first step is knowing the content and anticipating the needs of the students during the course of the class.  Lecture-based format is among the least effective teaching strategies.  Instead developing case studies, inquiry-based labs and small group projects can help students learn the content.  Students come in with a variety of learning preferences, abilities and deficits.  As the instructor it is important to understand what these are and to address them on an individual and group basis.  Finally making your instruction interesting and relevant to the ever-changing world will help students… >>>