discussion, they often forget to make notes and end up unprepared for tests. Notes taken from a lecture tend to be more comprehensive.

4. A lecture approach allows you to pull in material that is ancillary to the basic text. Students receive additional information and points of view other than what is presented in their reading. This often provides a more well-rounded learning experience for students. It also allows you to take dated course material and infuse it with recent research outcomes and current trends.

5. Auditory learners are best taught through lecture format. However, there are several different styles of learning and exclusively using the lecture format can diminish the learning experience for some of your students. The downside of this style of classroom delivery will be discussed under the Cons of the Lecture Format.

Cons of the Lecture Format:

1. If your teaching methodology is predominantly lecture, you can inadvertently spoon feed content without allowing students the opportunity to develop the critical thinking skills that will help them formulate personal ideas and reach their own conclusions. Allowing the opportunity to ask questions and dialog about implications teaches students to problem solve and understand the relationship between cause and effect.

2. Students can become easily bored with only a weekly lecture, particularly if the subject matter is dry or your delivery is lackluster. If you plan to lecture, be aware of the importance of the dynamics of your delivery.

3. While the auditory learner is able to maximize his learning experience by listening to lectures, a kinesthetic learner struggles with a classroom environment which fails to provide him the opportunity to learn through hands on activities and by doing. By using only a lecture format, you may not effectively teach those students who are not primarily auditory learners.

4. When lecturing is the primary means of teaching in the classroom, it can be difficult to gauge whether learning is taking place. Since there is little opportunity for feedback, exams become the primary indicator of whether students have mastered the material. Some students do not do well on written tests but, if given the opportunity, can communicate effectively, orally. Using only a written exam may not be a reliable indicator of whether learning has taken place for those who are poor test takers. Still others may be able to regurgitate facts on a written exam without really understanding the concepts that have been presented. By incorporating teaching methods that allow for participation and feedback, you have the opportunity to hear whether real learning is taking place.

The seasoned instructor eventually learns that combining various methods of instruction provides all students with an opportunity to learn optimally. As you gain experience as a teacher, you will learn to assess the needs of your students, class by class, and tailor your teaching methods to maximize the learning experience for all of them.

While many teachers have a personal preference when it comes to teaching style, the most important indicator of which format works best should depend upon your teaching objectives as well as the best potential for positive learning outcomes

Learn more about this author, Dr. Deborah Bauers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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