Teachers Tips
If you are interested in teacher training, it
is a good idea to follow some tips that will help you dispel
educational ideals and facts. To start, you should know that asking
students the question, "do you understand?" is an ineffective means
of checking comprehension. Depending upon the focus of the lesson,
check comprehension by 1) asking students to make a choice such as,
"Is this statement true or untrue?" or "Is the best answer A or B?"
2) giving a demonstration of a practical task; or 3) brainstorming
further examples to illustrate a point.
Plan a variety of approaches and activities for
each session. In a single class, you could have a teacher lecture, a
small group discussion, and a written reflection assignment. Varying
teaching strategies appeals to learning style differences and keeps
participants attentive and engaged.
Before you
set foot in the classroom, make sure you have a plan for the course
and class. Share your plans with your class - distribute a syllabus
on the first day and post the objectives for the day on the board at
the beginning of each class.
Keep in mind that addressing students by name
helps build rapport. While taking attendance, record students' names
on a seating plan. Do not call upon students in a predictable
pattern, and mark the plan each time you ask a student a question.
This way, you will routinely call upon everyone more or less
equally. At some institutions, you can request a class list, which
includes photos from student cards.
Bring your own whiteboard markers and/or chalk
and an eraser to every class. Record lesson objectives in a margin
of the board at the beginning of class. Be sure to note key points,
homework, etc. on the board. Monitor the size, pressure and
legibility of your writing. Use a variety of colors for emphasis and
clarity. Baby wipes are great for cleaning your hands at the end of
class.
Have students work in pairs or small groups
whenever possible: to check homework questions, to prepare
presentations, etc. Not only does interaction acknowledge and draw
upon the tremendous experience and knowledge adults bring to the
classroom, but students gain confidence as they check and confirm
answers with their peers. Having a network of friends can enhance a
student's academic success.
Audio-visual aids such as overhead projectors
and transparencies, flip charts, audio and video players, etc. can
be tremendous assets when used effectively, but great liabilities
when not. Check equipment before class to ensure that it is working,
that you know how to use it, and that tapes and counters are cued.
Position the equipment and yourself so that everyone can see and/or
hear clearly.
Try telling students that you will be giving a
handout after presenting the material, but that you would like them
to listen and think for now.
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