This week for lab we were to teach a lesson based around problem based learning. After teaching my lesson I walked out of the room thinking "that was rough".
What happened?
I was planning on having the students do some research on the different types of rabbits for my rabbit production unit. Everything started off well until until I really started getting into the instructions, At one point I told the students to get out there computers, then the next minute I told them to put them away. My clarity for instructions ended up being really confusing for everyone including myself.
On top of the confusion with my instructions, everyone was playing there different role as the students really well, which made it extremely difficult to get focused on how I could fix my instructions.
What could I do?
So in order to improve, I could do a few things. First I could write out my instructions word for word and read exactly what I want them to do before they get started. This will basically force the student to listen to the instructions instead of working on their computers.
Second I could have had the students actually identify what they needed to know instead of me telling them what they needed to know. This gives the students the chance to identify what they need and take ownership of the work they do.
How will I use this lesson?
In the spring i plan to use this lesson in my rabbit production unit with all of the improvements that I made. I believe the students will really enjoy this work and thrive while they are working on it.
Matt - don't be too hard on yourself! This is why we do labs, to learn from our mistakes. You can only go up from here! Clarity of instruction is a difficult task for anyone, but I definitely encourage you to write out your directions. Read over them from the perspective of the student, did they make sense to you? Did you chunk too many things together? Also, I was taught one time to but physical directions (get up and go to the door) before cognitive (compare x and y). Keep working hard, it will certainly pay off!
ReplyDeleteKeep your chin Matt! Clarity is something I struggle with greatly as well. I need to think about what I want my students to do. Then say it. And then give them the opportunity to ask any questions and complete the given task. Before assigning another portion to them. Stick with it your going to do great!
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