Effective classroom facilitation in both online and traditional environments fosters student engagement in their learning.
Imagine that you have been asked by your department chairman or college dean to assist other instructors in enhancing their classroom facilitation in order to increase student engagement and improve learning.
Create a 10-12 slide digital presentation to utilize as a professional development session for higher education instructors. Describe the following within your presentation:
Explanation of the effect of student engagement on student achievement in higher education and how student engagement is supported by adult learning theories previously explored.
Four engagement strategies for learner-to-learner interaction (two strategies for a traditional classroom and two strategies for an online classroom).
Four engagement strategies for learner-to-instructor interaction (two strategies for a traditional classroom and two strategies for an online classroom).
Four engagement strategies for learner-to-content interaction (two strategies for a traditional classroom and two strategies for an online classroom).
Two presentation methods for your content and how they would be applied to online and traditional classroom environments to facilitate student learning.
Full Answer Section
Title: Why Engagement Matters
- Higher academic achievement
- Increased critical thinking skills
- Improved problem-solving abilities
- Enhanced motivation and persistence
Speaker Notes Research consistently shows a positive correlation between student engagement and student achievement. Engaged students not only perform better academically, but they also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, leading to a more fulfilling educational experience.
Slide 3
Title: Adult Learning Theories
- Adults are self-directed learners who value their experiences.
- Learning must be relevant to their professional or personal lives.
- Adults learn best through problem-centered approaches.
Speaker Notes Adult learners come to the classroom with a wealth of experience. Effective instruction acknowledges this experience and creates opportunities for students to connect new knowledge to their existing understanding. Additionally, adults are motivated by learning that is relevant to their lives, so focusing on real-world applications is key.
Slide 4
Title: Learner-to-Learner Interaction (Traditional Classroom)
Strategy 1: Group Discussions
- Facilitate small group discussions on key concepts or case studies.
- Encourage active listening, respectful debate, and collaborative problem-solving.
Speaker Notes Small group discussions promote learner-to-learner interaction, allowing students to share perspectives, clarify understanding, and learn from each other. As the instructor, guide discussions by posing open-ended questions and ensuring all students have opportunities to participate.
Slide 5
Title: Learner-to-Learner Interaction (Online Classroom)
Strategy 2: Online Discussion Forums
- Create online discussion forums for ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
- Moderate discussions, ensuring respectful and productive communication.
Speaker Notes Online discussion forums provide a platform for ongoing learner-to-learner interaction, even in asynchronous environments. Encourage students to post thoughtful questions, respond to peers' ideas, and build upon one another's contributions. As the instructor, regularly monitor discussions and intervene if necessary to ensure respectful dialogue.
Slide 6
Title: Learner-to-Instructor Interaction (Traditional Classroom)
Strategy 1: Q&A Sessions*
- Dedicate time for structured Q&A sessions after lectures or presentations.
- Encourage open-ended questions that go beyond simple recall of facts.
Speaker Notes Q&A sessions are a cornerstone of learner-to-instructor interaction, allowing students to clarify understanding and seek further information. By encouraging open-ended questions, you can engage students in deeper analysis and critical thinking.
Sample Answer
Sure, here is a 10-slide digital presentation you can utilize as a professional development session for higher education instructors:
Slide 1
Title: The Power of Engagement: Strategies for Active Learning in the Classroom
Speaker Notes Welcome, faculty members! Today, we'll explore how to transform your classrooms into engaging spaces that foster deep learning. By incorporating strategies from adult learning theories, we'll create an environment where students are actively involved in their education.