Developing Your Communication Skills | Origin: ED106
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Enhancing Student Learning --> Developing Your Communication Skills
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I used a lot of examples as that is one way I best remember things. It was interesting to learn that this actually has to do with Episoic Memory. Episodic memory is much stronger than rote memory. When students are given examples that relate to their life experiences, memory retention is much greater.
I learned that good communication is really important when teaching. I need to make sure I explain things clearly, listen to my students, and pay attention to their questions and body language. I plan to use this by being more patient, approachable, and clear when I’m teaching.
I need to work on moving around more / floating while teaching.
The most important thing you bring to the classroom is you. Your physical presence, mannerisms, gestures, and voice all contribute to the image that your students form of you from the very first class meeting.
making eye contact, floating, pausing after a question, these are all very useful tactics to keep the student engaged
Mini lectures, students retain about 3-5 points per session so be intentional with the material you want them to retain. Never make assumptions on what students know and examples are always an important tool for learning!
I learned that taking short breaks and pausing for a few seconds is helpful for student since the average attention span for an adult is roughly 12-14 minutes. Using statements such as " Today I will be teaching you about 5 methods for communication" are great ways to engage your students to listen while presenting new information. Lastly, repeatedly reinforcing the same information in different ways and allowing for a time of application increases the probability of students actually remembering new information.
That it is important to move around the class and not sit behind the desk. Use notecards if needed. Make eye contact and make sure you are projecting your voice
Sometimes you may find yourself moving along at a pace that may be alittle bit too advance for some of the students. Sometimes giving the student more credit that they have actually demonstrated.
I move around the clinic floor. From one student to another and am always available to show them how to do whatever it is they need to complete the service.
It is a challenge to maintain the student's interest. As an instructor, it is my responsibility to find the teaching method that will be effective for reaching the student.
We have to acknowledge the way we deliver the lessons to the students. It should be given to them in a way that they can comprehend and hopefully through that process they will begin to understand how to apply the teaching.
Communicating with the students is important. An instructor must get to know their voice and recording yourself is a great idea. You can watch the recording to see what needs to change. Having a cracked voice you can speak softer.
During discussions, I should listen not only to what students say, but also to their tone, what they may be avoiding, and whether there are misunderstandings between students.
I've learned that clear presentations like using memorable examples can help students retain information better. Also using non verbal communication like body movements & facial expressions can add flair to the presentation. Smiling, making eye contact & "floating" around the classroom helps with student engagement as well as level of tone when speaking.
Sure. Here's a revised version with a stronger and more reflective introduction:
Through this topic, I gained a deeper understanding of how communication influences student engagement, learning, and classroom success. Effective communication involves more than simply delivering information; it requires clear explanations, active listening, positive nonverbal cues, and meaningful feedback. I learned that strong communication skills help students understand expectations, feel supported, and remain engaged in the learning process. Additionally, effective communication builds trust, strengthens relationships, and minimizes misunderstandings. I intend to apply these skills by communicating clearly, listening carefully to student concerns, and encouraging open discussions. By improving my communication skills, I can support student learning, increase participation, and create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
Keep on practicing to become good at lectures. You can video yourself to watch for distracting movements and tone of voice.
move around the classroom will help to keep students engaged during lectures
Clear communication is important for effective teaching. I learned to use simple language, check for understanding, and listen actively. I will apply this by giving clear instructions, using examples, and making sure students understand before moving on.
