Friday, July 12, 2013

Becoming An Updated Health Lecturer

By Connie Sears


A health lecturer is expected to meet dynamic and unique demands of a changed learning environment. The number of students in medical, dental and nursing professions has increased tremendously. The courses have specialized requiring a deeper understanding of particular content. New learning methods have been introduced into the profession to make it easier to grasp content.

The new trend in the world is a movement towards more interactive learning methods as provided in the new curriculum. There is advocacy for lesser numbers in class which makes it possible to sustain enthusiasm. A paradigm shift is urgently required especially with the introduction of PDAs, tablet computers and laptops. It calls for modification of old models used in learning and embracing new customized, interactive and self-paced options.

Policy makers want a reduction in hours spent in class regurgitating notes. This is considered passive learning and must be replaced by active and participatory methods. These methods are more productive. Systematic phasing out has seen an end to traditional lecturing. It is worth noting that productivity or lack thereof of a lecture does not depend on numbers.

Lecturers should understand that they are not there to read notes to the students. The session should be compared to a dance where the student and the lecturer participate. There is transmission of energy between the two parties. This energy is given and received in form of words, content and how it is delivered. The exchange and consequent reaction becomes an inspiration to the other party. The student must see the possibility of transformation through a single lecture.

There is value in the presence of a lecturer that cannot be delivered when a student follows an online module or reads a book. Real time delivery which is only possible during a physical lecture adds greater value. A lecture goes beyond information into inspiring a learner and engaging his or her imagination. It should be easier and better to understand a concept during a lecture than when one reads.

Students can turn to books or electronic resources for information. A lecture must be animated by the mind and heart of the lecture. Similar enthusiasm should be transferred to the learner to capture the heart and mind as well. Such a reflection allows students to see their future through the lecture session.

The result of a successful lecture should not be confined to passing examination, getting good grades and the resulting certificate. It should be the source of new connections, imaginations and questions in life. It should shape and make clearer the careers and lives of the students.

To achieve this, one must create a story format for every topic. There must be a beginning, development and end. The beginning is a problem that seeks answers. This is where curiosity, suspense and expectations are created. The lecture then transforms into a quest for answers.

The delight and enthusiasm of a health lecturer is reflected in the students. Delivering in this manner ensures that their expectations are met. You should not be surprised when your students ask a question you have never thought about. Your perspectives on the topic will be passed on to them like flu.




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