As an instructor, I have faced challenges and reaped rewards in the classroom. One sure-fire way to ensure a positive learning experience for both student and instructor alike, is to foster an engaging learning environment. Instructors foster this type of environment in different ways. Below are just a few things I have done in the past to make learning fun, exciting, and rewarding!
- Music is a MUST. Music speaks the language of learning. It breaks the ice. You should be quite selective when it comes to your choice of music to play in the classroom. It goes without saying that if the lyrics are derogatory, then it’s a NO. Music with an upbeat tempo can not only engage the student, it can also help to eliminate stress. This is a no-work-involved way to improve learning and participation in your classroom.
- Use props and costumes. This not only gets a laugh from your students, it programs their mind to pay attention to what comes next. Props and costumes are great for the visual learner, as it gives them something to look that ties into the concept they are simultaneously hearing about.
- Games and role play ARE for everyone. I have no clue why adults believe that games are just for children. Just like children, adults can increase their learning with the use of relevant games and acting out clinical situations. Classroom games that involve movement of any kind will engage your kinesthetic (hands-on) learners.
- The element of surprise. If your students know your every move in the classroom, you are going to lose their attention. Classroom time should be ever changing! If your students know that you present material in the same exact way, every single time, they may not pay as much attention to you as they previously did. Keep changing it up and do not settle into a routine.
- Be the example. Adult learners will follow your lead….if they feel like you are an effective leader. Most adults are not willing to put as much time and effort into something that their instructor can not/will not emulate. Do not be afraid to be the example. If you want your students to be creative learners, you must be a creative instructor and lead by example.
If you would like to see the above plan in action, check out this video. This is a presentation that I presented to the practical nursing students at Antonelli College- Hattiesburg campus.
**video credit to Brian Martin, RN(thanks a bunch!) I do not own the rights to the music played in this video. Lyrics are original and may not be reproduced in any way.- A.G.
Here’s to learning,
A.G.
