The discussion in this week revolved around two topics: techniques for engaging students in large classes and power point presentations.
The main points that I got out from the discussion on "engaging the students" the following techniques:
1. Pair work and group work
2. think-pair-share
3. ConceptTests and Quick-thinks
4. Priming
5. webQuests
6. Project-based learning
7. class forums/websites
8. use of technology (PP presentations)
I suggested that the participants in this class who teach large classes can start a special forum in which they brainstorm for solutions to their problems.
In the discussion on "Power Point Presentations", we talked about the use of PP presentations and how one can make them interactive based on our reading of the materials sent by the class instructor. The most important point that came out of this discussion is that it is about the presenter more than about the presentation. Making a presentation interactive means involving the students in it by incorporating activities, questions, quick tests, blank slides for time for reflection, good design and interesting graphics.
I also created a PP presentation on "parallel Structures" in technical writing and shared it on the class wiki.
In a nutshell, it's been again another busy week and useful one indeed.
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Busy is definitely the word I would use too. I was just thinking about how overwhelming it is to realize that when you get everything done late Sunday night, there is a set of new tasks waiting for you the following day! But since we've managed six weeks, we're more than halfway through.
ReplyDeleteI admire all of you with large classes, and I think your idea to tackle the problems it presents together is a great one.
Good summary in your post of all the main points this week.
Thank you Leena for leaving a message on my post. Yes, you are right. It feels tiring but one feels victorious also once the assignments are over. we are almost there. four more weeks and it is over.
ReplyDeletethank you again.
Dear Amed
ReplyDeleteGreat summary of what we have learnt this week. You are a very well organized person and you have everything under control.
It is really so frustrating to start all over again after a tiring weekend as Leena mentioned before but at least we are learning things that we can apply immediately in our classrooms. I'm actually planning to use the ppp I've made for the wiki class next month.
It certainly worths the time and effort.
See you
Angela
Dear Dr. Abed Al-Sameai:
ReplyDeleteI like to read your blog. It’s really clear and easy to read. You have the ability to explain and organize things in a friendly way. Your students must feel very pleased having you as a teacher where they can get a wide knowledge from your experience. I haven’t taught large classes and it’s not easy to manage a big group when you don’t have experience. A forum is a good alternative, brainstorming for solutions.
Regards Ava Norton
Hi Dr. Abed,
ReplyDeleteGot back home yet?? Nice to see you on my blog and thank you for commenting there. I also do like to read your posts, and comments..
I do agree with you that a good power point presentation depends on the presenter in the first place. As I said on Nicenet, most presenters use it poorly, needless to mention those who just keep flipping from on slide to the other leaving it to the to audience to figure it out..