Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 318 Unit 4 The Teacher Still, lectures have benefits. They can be useful with any content and are particularly suited for presenting factual information. They are a good way to present information to large groups of older students. How can you improve the effectiveness of lectures? Keeping the lec- ture period short helps improve lecture effectiveness. Adding visual ele- ments can increase interest and improve understanding. For example, some teachers use digital presentations along with their lectures. There are also ways to make lectures less passive. For example, you might insert a ques- tion-and-answer period within or after the lecture. Some teachers facilitate note taking by providing guided notes, or partial outlines, for students to complete or written questions for students to answer during a lecture. Teachers who lecture must be especially effective presenters (Figure 14.9). Reading Your teacher has likely assigned you to read from this textbook. While not particularly creative, reading is one of the basic ways of learning a wealth of information. In addition to textbooks, students might read peri- odicals, internet articles, and other researched material. You will continue to learn by reading. This is one reason why there is so much emphasis on literacy skills. Discussions Discussions may be teacher- or learner-centered, depending on the role the teacher plays. They help students explore options and ideas and develop key communication skills. A discussion begins with a stimulating question or problem based on a learning objective. It must be one without a simple answer. Discussions encour- age and provide practice in thinking skills, especially critical-thinking skills. Prepare well-organized material Provide examples to help clarify information Present main points clearly and in a logical order Convey enthusiasm Make eye contact with students and do not just read from notes Watch for signs of restlessness, boredom, or misunderstanding Link new material to what students already know Ask a question or clarify a point to help maintain student interest Effective Presenters Figure 14.9 Effective presenters are able to capture and hold students’ attention during lectures.