Power points
Power points are a great if used effectively, one should not read from the PP, but explain whats there.
Noreen,
Right. PPT is great for charts, tables, figures, illustrations, photos and diagrams. Text is best left for the textbook and supplementary resources. Text on a slide should be brief and short, guided by the instructor (or student).
Barry Westling
Power points should be short and to the point without putting the students to sleep.
David,
I'm never sure what will put a student to sleep but I know what I can do to prevent it, and that involves engagement, participation, interesting presentation, and adding in some fun if possible.
Barry Westling
I agree, you can read the chapter, I use power points as a high level flow for distribution of info
Monica,
Many instructors find very creative ways to effectively use PPT. But heavens, reading from a slide, or putting too much information on a single slide is not really an effective use of this powerful tool.
Barry Westling
With large groups I find the PPT is useful but I do use animations, quizzes,to break it up . Sometimes I put partial info on the slide then use it like an overhead (no screen just the whiteboard). Then I can have students come up and write the answers in .They enjoy being part of it .
Katherine,
PPT is easier in many ways but to the student, it's not always the most "learner friendly way to acquire new information. Using a variety of activities along with PPT seems to work out the best. So your partial screen information fits right in with student participation and engagement.
Barry Westling
I like to ues power points for highlighting or outlining the most impotant points and to stay on track with the intended information to discuss.
Leslie,
I think PPT is best for outlines rather than supplying all of the information. Additioonal information can be shared discussed, lectured, expanded, etc, but trying to put it all on the slides is not that beneficial or effective as a learning tool.
Barry Westling
Power point keep the lecture organized for the students as well as instructors. It keeps students focused as well.
Mahmood,
True, as long as there is not too many slides, for too long a stretch, and/or with too much information. Students lose interest when these factors are in place.
Barry Westling
Power points are great as a guide but should not be read word for word. It is always great to give students additional real world scenarios.
Clive,
PPT is a tool. I don't use a tool I don't need if it's not called for. Sometimes a handout, or just information from the text works just as well. Educational settings have been consumed with PPT for everything, that's where the expression "death by PowerPoint" originated. I say use a tool if needed, but only when it is the best choice among many.
Barry Westling
