Instructional back up plans
What are some of the back up plans that you have used in the past that seems to be the most successful?
Daniel,
It varies. What they all have in common is they are related to the subject matter, quickly accessible, low tech, and interesting. Students will detect if a teacher is "just filling time" vs. meaningful instruction. Examples are small group discussions, reviews of previously discussed material, written excercises from their textbook, or case studies with students participating at the white board by providing information. There are probably hundreds of other activities - Plan-B should be just as helpful as the original Plan-A.
Barry Westling
Our course is mainly computor driven so I have a number of lectures,labs ect to get me through if we have a power outage.The key is I practice them before course begins so if I need them it will be a seamless transition.
Brian,
Technological delays are probably one of the most frustrating interruptions a teacher (and students) can experience. I think low tech, easy to access and implement, and related to the subject are the best bac-up plans.
Barry Westling
At times I vary the lecture when it is clear students have not read the material, or not understood it, often using group discussions spending time with each group. Then continue the lecture.
Dionne,
Good. A think back-up plans need to be very flexible as well. When the unexpected happens, seamlessly moving from the planned activity to the back-up plan is possible when preparation for unexpected occurs. Low tech, fun and interesting, and related to the topic are essential.
Barry Westling
Back up p;ans are not just for classes with interuptionas. They also can be used when there is extra time for learning. This adds value to the lesson.
Garry,
Right. A good back-up plan should be as good as a regularly planned activity. We want to use the students time effectively and efficiently, with as little wasted time as possible, and a good back up plan is perfect for filling those time slots.
Barry Westling
