18 Unconventional Methods To Use In The Classroom To Boost Learning
Khushboo Ramchandani
September 25, 2024
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6 min read
Imagine attending class five days a week, listening to the same teacher lecture endlessly, and then enduring more classes afterward. The weekly droning on of classes sure does get boring at some point. In today's world, where attention spans are shorter than ever (thanks to social media), boosting student engagement is crucial to maximizing the effectiveness of classroom learning. This is where educators need to step up their game and employ relevant strategies and methods to captivate their students and make learning interesting.
Here are 18 exciting and unique ways to make your class lively and engaging:
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Zoom meetings, online discussion forums, collaborative document editing and virtual learning environments - there is a world of possibilities for digital collaboration in the realm of education. Collaborating virtually is about going beyond the traditional means of teaching and providing a dedicated online space for learning, information sharing and communication among professors and students from all around the globe. Such a diverse platform allows students to interact, brainstorm and share ideas with people from different cultures and backgrounds, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their overall learning experience.
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It's well-known that the best way to test your understanding of a concept is to teach it to someone else. Peer teaching is a collaborative learning strategy where students teach and learn from each other. This method not only reinforces the material for the student-teacher but also promotes a deeper understanding for the learner. By explaining concepts in their own words, students can clarify their own understanding and identify gaps in their knowledge. For instance, allow one or more students to take over the classroom occasionally, or rotate this responsibility so everyone has a chance. This not only reinforces their knowledge but also builds confidence and communication skills.
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Let's face it, a lot of today's students prefer selfies over science and reels over reading. And while we're worried about how this social media obsession is secretly destroying their attention spans and emotional intelligence, why not take advantage of the wonder that is social media?Social media, often seen as a distraction, can be harnessed as a powerful educational tool to boost learning. By tapping into students' familiarity and comfort with social media platforms, educators can make learning more accessible, relevant, and enjoyable, ultimately enhancing student engagement and retention. Integrate platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook into the curriculum, and create interactive and engaging online content that resonates with students. These platforms allow for real-time discussions, sharing of resources, and collaboration beyond the classroom walls. Plan assignments or projects that take place on one of these platforms (Math memes, Science reels) and watch the magic unfold.
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"I think, at a child's birth, if a mother could ask a fairy godmother to endow it with the most useful gift, that gift would be curiosity."
βBegin your class with an intriguing question or challenge. Encourage students to ponder and explore possible solutions as the lesson progresses instead of immediately providing answers. This technique keeps them engaged and curious, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Finally, reveal the answer or solution at the end of the class, creating a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment for the students.
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Imagine having to sit through hour-long monologues on the periodic table or the invasion of Poland. Sounds dreadful, doesn't it? But replace that with a stimulating conversation on the elements' real-world applications or the complex geopolitical factors leading to World War II, and it doesn't sound so bad! Attempt to transform traditional lectures into interactive discussions, thus fostering a more engaging and participatory learning environment. This method encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and engage deeply with the material, making learning a more enjoyable and effective experience.
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The flipped classroom is an unconventional approach that reverses traditional teaching methods - instead of delivering lectures in class and assigning homework, students first engage with new material through video lectures or readings at home. Classroom time is then dedicated to interactive activities, discussions, and problem-solving exercises, allowing students to apply their knowledge with guidance from the teacher. This method promotes accountability, encourages active participation, and maximizes the use of in-class time for collaborative learning.
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One life; why so serious? Creating a friendly and approachable classroom environment can be a game-changer for student engagement. While, as educators, we are constantly burdened with completing the syllabus, every class doesnβt have to be serious. Keep it light; crack jokes, laugh when one of your students cracks a joke, and let them know you're human too. When educators foster a welcoming atmosphere, students feel more comfortable participating and expressing themselves. This positive rapport not only enhances student-teacher interactions but also encourages collaboration and open dialogue among peers.
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Textbooks may seem like the most important resource in a classroom, but a little change never hurts anyone! Try embracing digital resources, interactive tools, and multimedia content, like videos, quizlets and online activities to make learning hands-on and stimulating. This approach allows students to access up-to-date information, engage with varied learning materials, and tailor their educational experience to their individual needs.Β
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The pressure of scoring high grades has robbed children of the joy of learning. When students are freed from the constraints of the grading scale, they can focus more on deeply understanding the material and exploring their own interests. For example, consider creating an ungraded project where students research a topic of their choice related to the course material. This will not only foster genuine curiosity and engagement but also allow students to actually enjoy the process of learning.
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βControl leads to compliance; autonomy leads to engagement.β ~ Daniel Pink.
By allowing students to have a say in their learning paths, project topics, or classroom activities, they become more invested in their education. For example, in a history class, instead of assigning a standardized research paper, a teacher might let students choose between creating a documentary, designing a website, or crafting a detailed presentation on a historical event. This sense of ownership fosters a deeper connection to the material and encourages self-motivation while the flexibility caters to different learning styles. When students are given the freedom to explore their interests and make decisions about their learning, they are more likely to be enthusiastic and proactive, leading to a more dynamic and effective educational experience.
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Don't just assign activities or projectsβactively participate in them alongside your students. By working with them, you create a collaborative environment that fosters a sense of partnership and support. This involvement not only makes students feel more comfortable but also demonstrates your commitment to their learning, encouraging greater engagement and motivation.
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Introduce variety by hiring or inviting an opinion leader or guest teacher relevant to your course to teach a concept. This change of pace not only refreshes the classroom dynamic but also exposes students to different teaching styles and expertise, enriching their learning experience and offering new insights into the subject matter.
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Since when did field trips become something only kids in primary school had the privilege of enjoying? By taking students out of the classroom and into real-world settings, concepts studied in class can come to life. For example, a visit to a museum can deepen understanding of historical events, while volunteering can offer hands-on experience in community service. These excursions provide immersive, experiential learning opportunities that enhance comprehension and retention of the subject matter, making education more engaging and memorable.
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Since when did field trips become something only kids in primary school had the privilege of enjoying? By taking students out of the classroom and into real-world settings, concepts studied in class can come to life. For example, a visit to a museum can deepen understanding of historical events, while volunteering can offer hands-on experience in community service. These excursions provide immersive, experiential learning opportunities that enhance comprehension and retention of the subject matter, making education more engaging and memorable.
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Thereβs nothing like a quiz to bring out the competitive side of your batch of learners! Conduct online quizzes that have the whole class involved. Platforms like Kahoot offer a dynamic way to involve every student, turning quizzes into an exciting activity that fosters competition and participation. This method not only makes assessment enjoyable but also reinforces the material in a non-stressful way.
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Flashcards are an evergreen technique that significantly enhances learning, especially for courses with extensive information to remember. By breaking down complex topics into manageable, bite-sized pieces, flashcards help students engage in active recall and spaced repetition, both of which are proven to improve memory retention and understanding.
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When a student's behavior is unacceptable, it's important to address it directly and effectively with the individual rather than resorting to collective punishment. Studies show that punishment often has the opposite of the intended effect, leading to resentment and disengagement. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and constructive communication to foster a more supportive and encouraging learning environment.
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Capturing and maintaining students' attention is no easy task, but incorporating flexible seating is a strategy that can help. This seemingly small change fosters a more dynamic and collaborative classroom atmosphere, making it easier for students to engage and interact with one another.
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The traditional model of education, centered around textbooks and rigid structures, is increasingly outdated. To foster a dynamic and effective learning environment, educators must embrace innovative approaches that prioritize student engagement, autonomy, and experiential learning. By eliminating textbooks, minimizing the pressure of grades, and empowering students with choices, we can cultivate a classroom culture where learning is a joyful and fulfilling experience.
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If youβre an educator dedicated to boosting classroom engagement and making the learning journey memorable for your students, Classcard can help your teaching and learning business on this meaningful journey. Our intuitive and practical class management system allows you to schedule classes, manage bookings, track payments and attendance, share resources, and lots more!Β
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