Interaction
The way I approach Excellerated learing is to be approachable and to be interested in the information the I have to offer as well as the questions that the students ask.
I agree. you definatley need to be approachable. my attitude sets the mood for the class. occassionally i might get a question I dont know. instead of just saying i dont know, i let the student know that i will find out the answer for them.
David,
yes, nothing can replace the approachable instructor who truly wants to help all students be successful.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Hi Ryan,
Teaching adults in an accelerated course is challenging, but the best teaching modality to comfort the entire classroom is to be approachable, smile, open with questions, a simple joke (relative to the class, appropriate, of course). Approachable instructors garner trust from their students, learning is elevated.
Jo
Jo,
you are so right that nothing can compete with being approachable.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I attempt to help the students by attempting to express a non threatening enviroment resulting in a relaxed learning center. I always keep it professional, encourage discussion, and try and bring all into the discussion gently.
I have sat in many instructors classes in the 8 years I have taught. Some instructors place them selves above the class. This seems to set them apart from the students. Most of the time I compare them to a younger me, that seems to put them in a more relaxed mood and is easier to get them to interact with me.
I try to be enthusiastic and relate the material to their career field.
Shawna,
while this sounds simple, this really is a key way to engage them & get them excited.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
At my facility we have many instructors. They all have different teaching styles. I am the person that you just discribed.I have found over the years that students better in a more relaxed, fun enviroment then one that is full of tension.
I think that its important for students to realize that sometimes we just don't know the answer. I am in the nursing field where things change in a moments notice. Sometimes the students find out chnages before I do. Rather than telling them to find out the information I tell them that I'll get back to them.....and I do.
Nothing is worse than telling a student you will get back to them and don't.
