How to Be a Good Lecturer
THINGS A GOOD LECTURER USUALLY DOES
1. Gets the basic info across
Explains facts and experiments clearly and accurately.
2. Makes the immediate point clear
Doesn't recite lists of facts without apparent purpose. Relates details to point.
Balances specific examples and statements of general principles.
3. Frames the information -- fits it into a bigger picture
Before a topic -- gives an introduction. After -- gives a summary.
During -- relates pieces to things already said and to come.
4. Proceeds from topic to topic in an organized fashion
5. Uses appropriate visual tools (blackboard, overhead, slides, computers, models etc.) to:
List important points. Show/draw diagrams (or videos, models etc.) to illustrate points that need it
6. Uses board or other visuals in ways that make the material clearer & make note taking easier.
For example, uses visuals that are: large enough, clear & use color if appropriate
Gives handouts of complicated diagrams. Draws steps in a process one at a time, instead of continually modifying a single picture.
7. Answers questions well
Figures out what questioner really wants to know.. Answers the question. Doesn't go off on a tangent. Puts off inappropriate questions. Doesn't insult students. Makes sure whole class hears both question and answer.
8. Uses technical terms appropriately
Explains new terms. Doesn't use unnecessary technical terms. Doesn't slip into lab jargon when inappropriate.
9. Keeps student interest up and tone of class lively
Varies pace of lecture by answering questions, changing tone of voice, etc. Tells relevant jokes &/or anecdotes. Shows how technical material relates to some topic of current interest. Talks to class -- doesn't read a prepared script. Seems interested in material, not bored.
10. Lectures at an appropriate level
Material is neither too simple nor too advanced.
Rate at which new facts and ideas are presented is
1. Gets the basic info across
Explains facts and experiments clearly and accurately.
2. Makes the immediate point clear
Doesn't recite lists of facts without apparent purpose. Relates details to point.
Balances specific examples and statements of general principles.
3. Frames the information -- fits it into a bigger picture
Before a topic -- gives an introduction. After -- gives a summary.
During -- relates pieces to things already said and to come.
4. Proceeds from topic to topic in an organized fashion
5. Uses appropriate visual tools (blackboard, overhead, slides, computers, models etc.) to:
List important points. Show/draw diagrams (or videos, models etc.) to illustrate points that need it
6. Uses board or other visuals in ways that make the material clearer & make note taking easier.
For example, uses visuals that are: large enough, clear & use color if appropriate
Gives handouts of complicated diagrams. Draws steps in a process one at a time, instead of continually modifying a single picture.
7. Answers questions well
Figures out what questioner really wants to know.. Answers the question. Doesn't go off on a tangent. Puts off inappropriate questions. Doesn't insult students. Makes sure whole class hears both question and answer.
8. Uses technical terms appropriately
Explains new terms. Doesn't use unnecessary technical terms. Doesn't slip into lab jargon when inappropriate.
9. Keeps student interest up and tone of class lively
Varies pace of lecture by answering questions, changing tone of voice, etc. Tells relevant jokes &/or anecdotes. Shows how technical material relates to some topic of current interest. Talks to class -- doesn't read a prepared script. Seems interested in material, not bored.
10. Lectures at an appropriate level
Material is neither too simple nor too advanced.
Rate at which new facts and ideas are presented is