Communication
Teaching is about listening, learning, sharing and discussing. When sharing or instructing a subject, the most important way to be a part of that subject and your class is by being able to understand what is being absorbed. Without feedback I cannot relate or understand what my students need and understand. I therefore at the same time am being taught by my students how to be a better teacher/facilitator. Learning what is needed from me will enrich my students with my teaching skills, soft skills and hard skills.
Sonia,
This is a great reminder of how engaged we need to be with our students so we can get this feedback.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Talking and finding the true heart of the topic and learner is vital..
Bob ,
yes, the open lines of communication with our students is key to success.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
As a Chef Instructor I enjoy learning from my students with vast amounts of experience cooking with different cultures. the knowledge is endless.
billie,
and what a great way to demonstrate to all your students that you want to learn alongside of them.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I need to make sure that the feedback is on topic to what is being taught that day.
Jennifer,
to me this is one of the hardest things to manage, keeping the students on task & focused.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I believe when instructing a class, it is important that your students understand what you are teaching. You also have to use positive words such as "can" so the students become encouraged and motivated, and always provide clear and direct statements so that your students keep focused and they understand your instructions.
Marie,
yes, clarity is a vitally important aspect in all of our communication, especially so with our classes & subject matter.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Another aspect to Marie's take on the topic is the student's interpretation of the instructor's description of the course and how the course will be conducted. For example, in a virtual lab, if the instructor allows the student to do the lab without engaging the student, then because the lab can be done anywhere, the student says, "Why bother to come to class?" The key is engagement: as you do the lab, share and address comprehension.
