Four Pillars of Pedagogy
Content delivery to students in college classrooms forms the foundation of the teaching and learning process. Content delivery transfers knowledge from the instructor to the students. It involves presenting key concepts, theories, and information related to the course to ensure that students gain a foundational understanding of the subject matter. Well-organized and clear content delivery helps students comprehend complex topics. It ensures that information is presented in a logical sequence, making it easier for students to follow and understand the material. Engaging content delivery captures students’ interest and maintains their attention. Varied teaching methods, multimedia resources, and real-world examples can make the learning experience more interesting and relevant, promoting active engagement. Effective content delivery goes beyond simply conveying information; it also provides opportunities for students to apply their knowledge. Through case studies, discussions, and practical examples, students can see how theoretical concepts are relevant in real-world scenarios. Well-delivered content encourages critical thinking and analysis. Instructors can guide students in examining information critically, questioning assumptions, and developing their analytical skills. This helps students move beyond rote memorization to a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Content delivery should align with the learning objectives of the course. Clear communication of these objectives helps students understand what is expected of them and what they should achieve by the end of the course. Effective content delivery considers the diverse learning styles and backgrounds of students. Instructors should strive to make content accessible to all students, employing different teaching methods, providing supplementary materials, and ensuring that language and terminology are understandable.
Content Delivery Tips
- Lecturing
- How to Hold a Better Discussion Advice Guide
- Flipped Classrooms
- The Jigsaw Classroom
- Question Formulation Technique
- Thriving Online: A Guide for Busy Educators
- Teaching Simulations Online
- Teaching Cases Online
Content Delivery Resources
- Overson, C. E., Hakala, C. M., Kordonowy, L. L., & Benassi, V. A. (Eds.). (2023). In their own words: What scholars and teachers want you to know about why and how to apply the science of learning in your academic setting. Society for the Teaching of Psychology.
- Benassi, V., Overson, C., Hakala, C. (2014). Applying Science of Learning in Education. Society for the Teaching of Psychology.
- Brown, P., Roediger, H., & McDaniel, M. (2014). Make it Stick: The Science of Successful Learning. Boston: Harvard University Press.
- Lang, J. (2014). Small Teaching. New York: Jossey-Bass.
The goal of any assignment is to reinforce and extend the work of the content. Help students see that assignments help them better understand what was discussed in class, and extend that out to other aspects of the discipline. Frame assignments, regardless of format, in a way that guides students to see the value in the work.
To design strong assignments, work backwards from your learning objective and consider what you want students to do. Create a clear, written explanation of the instructions of the assignment and post them for students to reference. Consider adding, in addition to the written explanation, a video or screen caption to more clearly delineate the assignment to students.
Assignment Tips
- Problem-Based Learning
- Case Studies
- Adding Oral Presentation Components
- Creating Assignments in Brightspace
Assignment Resources
Providing feedback to students in college classrooms is essential. It provides insights into students’ comprehension, identifying areas of strength and areas that may need improvement. Detailed feedback helps clarify concepts and correct misconceptions. It offers guidance on how students can enhance their understanding, encouraging them to seek additional resources or support if needed. Positive feedback can motivate and encourage students. Recognizing their efforts and achievements fosters a positive learning environment, boosting confidence and motivation. Constructive feedback also highlights areas for improvement without discouraging students. Feedback is a continuous loop for improvement. When students receive feedback on assignments or assessments, they have the opportunity to make corrections and revisions. This iterative process contributes to ongoing improvement and deeper learning. Feedback helps students understand the expectations for future assignments and assessments. It guides them in refining their skills, adapting their strategies, and preparing more effectively for subsequent evaluations. Through feedback, students are prompted to engage in self-reflection and metacognition. They learn to assess their own work critically, understand their learning processes, and develop the ability to self-regulate their learning.
Feedback Tips
Feedback Resources
Effective communication helps in creating a sense of community within the classroom. Students are more likely to participate and collaborate when they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions. This sense of community can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Students are more likely to seek help and clarification when instructors are approachable and open to communication. Being accessible through office hours, email, or other means makes it easier for students to get the support they need when facing challenges or uncertainties. In case of issues or concerns, effective communication allows for prompt problem resolution. Whether it’s addressing academic challenges, providing additional resources, or resolving conflicts, open lines of communication enable a timely and efficient resolution.