You have likely spent countless hours preparing and implementing your course. As you maintain or look to your next course, consider the following class facilitation tips from the Harvard Business Review. These suggestions are helpful whether you deliver a course remotely or in-person. If you are curious about how to apply any of these approaches, contact Chris Neary at christopher.neary@northwestern.edu for a consultation.
Pre-Class Tips 1 Hour Prior
- Does my teaching have an adequate level of detail?
- Have a developed and sorted call lists (names of students you plan to call in to spark discussion) ahead of time?
- Is my workspace clear of distractions?
- Is my tech ready?
- Do I have 15-30 minutes blocked before class?
During Class
- Remind students to use each other’s names.
- Ask clear, concise questions.
- Encourage follow-up questions.
- Be cognizant of when students raise hands and when that occurs in your discussion. Have you moved on to a different topic since then?
- Be flexible with student responses that may not answer the question directly–this insight is fresh and interesting!
- Be OK with letting students know you need to slow down or shift — students are more understanding than you may expect!
After Class and General Philosophies
- Learn to let go of perfectionism for yourself and for your students.
- Practice self-care.
- Allow yourself and your students to enjoy the learning journey.
You may read the full article here, originally published by HBR’s Bill Schiano, on June 3, 2021.