As instructors, it is challenging to present students with productive lecture sessions. Here are 5 tips in creating a concise and productive lecture that help students learn and retain more.
#1: Present information clearly and sequentially. Students organize information the way it is
FIRST presented.
Give overview at the beginning of each class session.
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Require previewing of the day’s topic. (Can include a question or quiz at the beginning of class.)
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Lecture in an organized format that is consistent between class sessions.
#2: Highlight and call out distinct ideas: Students remember whatever is different/distinct.
- Provide clear breaks between major topics.
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Point out similarities and differences.
Using PowerPoint:
- Use PowerPoint as a backdrop to punctuate a lecture-narrative.
- Differentiate slides using pictures, graphics and animation.
- Use more images than words. The images will punctuate your spoken words.
#3: Frequently shift modalities. Students remember the first and last of what they hear or read. (the middle gets lost unless Listening skills are strictly implemented).
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Shift modalities at least every 20 minutes (from lecture to short videoclip, student questions, overhead projections, or any other new orientation to the topic) without breaking the flow of instruction.
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Frequently (no less than 5 minutes) shift vocal tone and/or physical position in the room.
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Insert appropriate humor or human-interest vignettes to flavor critical points (even in STEM courses).
#4: Review ideas and concepts frequently. Students build context by going over the same material with time between.
1. Briefly review all previous information at the beginning of each class.
#5: Introduce all new content at least 2 days before an exam. Students need at least 2 days (with
sleep) to process a new concept.
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Use the 2 days before an exam for review.
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Schedule exams on Mondays to allow for 2 days of weekend study.
