Preparing to Teach the Large Lecture Class
General Strategies
- Visit the classroom before the first meeting so you are familiar with the room layout and technology.
- Don't plan to lecture for the entire class. Allow time for questions and answers.
- Budget your time carefully.
- Use clickers to solicit responses from the class.
Organizing the Course
- Make the course structure explicit throughout the term, not just on the first day.
- Prepare a detailed syllabus and refer to it regularly throughout the term.
- Clearly define your expectations and course goals.
Managing the Course
- Plan on how to distribute and grade exams and homework.
- Stagger the due dates for assignments so you are not inundated with papers.
- Use electronic communication and record-keeping tools like iLearn.
Structuring the Lecture
- Create a theme for your lecture and explain why it is important.
- Structure your lecture in 10 - 15 minute blocks that correspond to the attention span of a typical student.
- Leave time for questions.
- Begin and end the lecture with a summary statement.
