3.13 Which Method of Teaching to Use
There is no one best method which applies to all teaching situations. Each instructor has to choose for himself which method is most compatible with the objectives, the students' abilities, his own abilities and with the practical constraints of time, facilities, accommodation, cost etc. The most important factors are:
1) Objectives
The objective of the lesson is of paramount importance in choosing the method of teaching. For example, if the objective requires the student to physically do something, then the method must be one which enables him to do it.
2) Subject Matter
Subject matter should be considered before the method is chosen, or else the instructor might be tempted to rearrange the subject matter to suit a favourite method. Amongst other considerations under this heading are the possibility of the material changing rapidly, and the difficulty level of the material.
3) Target Population
Under this heading are included items such as class size and abilities, experience and present level of performance.
4) Facilities
Each method makes its own demand on facilities (equipment, teaching aids, materials, accommodation, resources, etc.) and these must be borne in mind. Some methods will plainly be impossible.
5) Time
Some methods take longer than others. For example, the discussion and theory lessons methods take longer than the lecture. Time of day is also important. As a general rule, it is wise to give theory in the morning and conduct practical exercises in the afternoon.
6) Cost
Most instructors would be surprised to learn the costs involved in instruction. Therefore, where a particular method shows a distinct saving in cost-effectiveness, or reduction in training time, this becomes an important consideration. Airlines are in business to make a profit: training costs like all other costs are therefore subject to constraints.
7) Instructional Staff
The number of staff available can have a relevant bearing upon the method chosen. The tastes and abilities of the staff may also be worth considering, but should be considered only after the paragraphs above have been looked at.
Connections
- 3.3 Methods of Teaching Cognitive Skills. The seven candidate methods listed under Other Methods of Teaching Cognitive Skills are the menu this section provides selection criteria for.
- 3.12 Student Attention. The attention-producing repertoire that operates inside whichever method is chosen.
- 3.14 Which Method of Questioning to Use. The questioning analogue of this method-selection logic.
- 4.1 Introduction. The aids dimension of the Facilities criterion.