1. FD SUPPORTING TEACHING AND LEARNING
TEACHERS AND TEACHING

2. Definitions
Strategies – how subjects are taught e.g. Maths – using grid method, counting on.
Teaching methods – Pedagogy – methods used in teaching

3. Effective teachers
Teachers use an array of teaching strategies because there is no single, universal approach that suits all situations.
Different strategies used in different combinations with different groupings of students will improve learning outcomes.
Some strategies are better suited to teaching certain skills and fields of knowledge than are others.
Some strategies are better suited to certain student backgrounds, learning styles and abilities.

4. TEACHING METHODS
In practice teachers/TAs use a variety of teaching approaches influenced by a number of factors.
Resources available
Environment
Confidence/understanding
Knowledge level
Abilities of learners
Skill requirement
Age of learner

5. TASK
Think of a particular session you have been involved with – either supporting or delivering –
What method (s) of delivery did you or the teacher use in that session?
Did you feel it was successful e.g. high level of pupil participation and learning outcome achievement?
What other methods could have been used – to be equally effective / engaging the learner

6. Methods
Teaching methods which teachers choose, ranges from teacher led to student led activity.
 see diagram

7. EVALUATION OF TEACHING METHODS
Teaching method chosen depends on
Knowing enough about the method
Having the confidence to use it (may be a risk)
Having sufficient skill/knowledge for it to be effective
Understanding how it works (watch others)

8. Effectiveness Effectiveness depends on
The suitability of the methods for promoting learning
Use of a variety of methods with the sessions/ programmes – keep interest
Economy of effort relative to learning output
Human factors
Planning and resources available
Control and management of learning process
Skill of teacher in using the particular method (s) Monitoring the use and feedback on the methods
Honest evaluation of the learning outcomes and processes involved

9. WHAT MAKES A GOOD TEACHER?
REFLECTION TASK 1
What ‘good’ teachers do you remember from your own school days?
What was it that made them ‘good’?
Should ‘good’ be ‘effective’?

10. WHAT MAKES A GOOD TEACHER?
REFLECTION TASK 2
What might be the advantages and disadvantages of the following types?
Charismatic teachers
The competent practitioner
The reflective practitioner
Experienced teacher
The NQT