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Traditionally, the decision of whether to lecture or use the discussion method has depended upon the instructor's preferred style of delivery. Many instructors lean toward the lecture method because they enjoy it and because it allows them to retain control of the course of the class. New teachers especially gravitate toward lecturing because its structured format provides them a safety net. Seasoned instructors often enjoy incorporating discussion into the lecture format, more effectively drawing students into the learning experience.

But should an educator's teaching style depend largely upon personal preference and/or comfort level with a certain format? Are certain teaching styles more specifically suited for accomplishing certain teaching objectives?

The lecture style of delivery is frequently driven by a teacher's desire to disseminate as much information as possible in a specified amount of time. Other teaching formats are more geared to helping students develop critical thinking skills and learning how to problem solve. Before you champion the lecture method of teaching you should consider some of its pros and cons.

Pros of the Lecture Format:

1. A lecture format provides you ample opportunity to cover the planned material since the bulk of each class is your delivery of information that you have outlined ahead of time. In some cases a brief question and answer time is provided during the last few minutes of each class period. Since you know the exact time frame for each session, you can plan ahead for a lecture that will fill the allotted time. If disseminating a large quantity of information is your goal, then lecturing can certainly be the vehicle that allows you to accomplish it.

2. When material is presented in a lecture format, you have the chance to establish the culture of the class through your own style of delivery. If you begin the first lecture with allot of energy and communicate enthusiasm for your subject matter, students will be influenced by your eagerness and be more likely to invest in the class. Dynamic teachers are often able to infuse energy into their classrooms just by delivering a stimulating lecture.

3. It is much easier for students to take notes during a classroom lecture than in the midst of discussion. Dialog can emphasize not only your objectives, but ideas of fellow classmates as well. This can make it difficult for students to determine exactly what content they are responsible to know. When students engage in a classroom

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