Teaching Styles

Teachers Learning/Teaching Styles “A teacher’s learning style profoundly influences his or her teaching style, and if teacher and student learning styles clash, frustration and trouble can ensue. Identifying and describing both learning styles then becomes one pivotal element in crafting a successful tutor-student relationship.” -John Wolfe

Different Teaching Styles Sequential teacher - Prefers Lecture –talks all period. Usually dresses in a formal manner Verbal focus – words, words and more words Logical sequence – teacher presents material in a step-by-step, reasonable format. Random teacher– teacher jumps all over the place. Teacher moves around the class constantly. Group discussion – teacher talks, but encourages discussion. Small groups – teacher aids (facilitates) group interaction. Visual focus – teacher uses lots of visual aids. Really important – Students must be adaptable.

Ways to assess your instructor’s Teaching style Listen for clues in how your instructor presents the material Determine what kinds of questions your instructor asks Observe your instructor’s behavior Look at how your instructor is dressed : ex. Sequential teachers tend to dress more Formally Volunteer to read each section in our packet?

The Sequential Instructor Is idealistic, systematic, and organized Likes facts and details Values sequential thinking Shows more interest in data than in people Prefers informational forms of instruction, such as reading or a lecture Uses an organized, outline format while teaching. Has well planned learning activities Grades answers as right or wrong (no partial credit) Can sometimes be completely unaware of the emotional climate in a room. Seeks efficiency Is a decision maker Typically teaches subjects that require sequential thinking such as math or computers Tends to be a firm disciplinarian

The Random Instructor Enjoys people Is non- judgmental and supportive Prefers role-playing, open discussion, and small group work Will often individualize instruction Prefers to create own course of study Gives imaginative assignments Displays a learning environment that sequential instructors may view as disorderly Assumes learning is a function of interest Teacher moves around the class constantly. Tends to follow what he or she feels like doing rather than a structured lesson plan Typically teaches subjects that require random thinking like art, music, or physical education. Stresses concepts and conclusions

The Balanced Instructor An equal mix from the sequential and the random preferences Generally well liked because they attract both sides.

Helping Your student(s) Build Positive Relationships with his/her Instructors • Much of education is about interactions with your professors. • The success of those interactions will have a major impact on a student’s overall educational success. • Encourage your student to not let his/her learning style or personality preferences control his/her behavior. • Students should take responsibility for relating to their instructors in a way that will be most beneficial to them. Students may need to adjust their learning style based on the teachers Teaching Style. • Instructors will be more responsive if the student appears to be confident and in control.

Solving Problems with Instructors • Instructors are human. Students can and should talk to them. • If a student is struggling in a course, suggest that he talk to classmates and his instructor. • Encourage students to be courteous and forthright. We all make mistakes: instructors and students both. • students should keep copies of their work. • students should direct complaints to instructor first. • If unsuccessful, appeal in writing to instructor’s supervisor.

Making the Most of the Student-Instructor Relationship • students should make it a point to attend class regularly, and on time. • If they have a question, ask it. • students should save class “cuts” for emergencies. • Encourage your students to sit near the front of the classroom. • students should see their instructor outside of class when they need help. Communicate! Communicate! Communicate!

Remember! No matter what your student’s Learning Style is, it is very important for them to: – Be involved in class – participate! – Link classroom experience to the outside world – Relate class concepts to real life experiences. – Ask questions and offer criticism. – Don’t get distracted – stay “on-task” – Keep an open mind: there are many ideas beyond your own. All life is learning; it never stops!