Student's attention span.
This informnation was very helpful. I've noticied when I use a power point presentation that last longer than 20 minutes I lose my student's attention.
I have come to appreciate the supplemental CD/DVDs that companies like McGraw Hill and Elsevier provide for Med Term while educational, they have become much more light hearted and fun for classroom environment with the current Gen Y & Gen X students.
Philp , the new fun formats to appeal to younger learners. Isn't it nice that someone else provides these high tech tools?
Michele Deck
When I use power points I have the students all take a few slides and either have them explain the slide or elaborate with real world examples on each slide. The students love this technique and it really keeps their attention. Some times I tell them a day in advance which slides will be theirs so that they can prepare; they love doing this.
I generally upload my powerpoint slides a few days before the lecture. I have the students review the slides on their own and have each student select a specific slide of topic they found most interesting. I then have the students share their thoughts and ideas prior to presenting my presentation. I really believe it taps into their prior knowledge of the subject matter and allows students to share that knowledge with others.
Robert, thank you for sharing this teaching strategy that incorporates your students prior knowledge. It is true they learn as much from their peers as from the instructor.
Michele Deck
I like the idea of having students contribute to a particular slide or slides. That sounds like a good way to keep their attention. I myself try to incorporate as many graphics or weblinks to short videos or other sites that pertain to the topic on the slide, this keeps their attention as it shifts from wrote information to visual and auditory stimulation.
Jody, weblinks and other interactive options in a course offer variety and flexibility.
Michele Deck
When I first started teaching med term I was opposed to playing any type of games. It seemed unprofessional and I learned it without these types of activities. But I see that different people learn different ways, and even though you cant learn everything with games, they at the very least break up the monotony of s lot of dry material.
Brad, I am glad that you see the need for a variety of approaches to learning in your classes.
Michele Deck
When i use my powerpoints, we have alot of terminology. I usually stop and will ask what the term means, so they have to pay attention.
