Lecture Method

by: Edsel R. Alapag, BSEd-English

A. Descriptions:
The most common form of teaching method. It used for introduction of new subjects, summarizing ideas, showing relationships between theory and practice, and reemphasizing main points. Is adaptable to many different settings, including either small or large groups.

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It is both auditory learners and visual learners can benefit from a lecture. An instructor is the central focus of information transfer. It makes use of exposition which may be a narration of descriptions.

B. Formal vs. Informal lectures

Formal Lectures:
The formal lecture method is primarily used when presenting information to large groups. Communication is virtually a one way communication from instructor to students. Student participation is severely limited.

Informal Lectures:
The informal lecture includes active student participation. Learning is best achieved if students participate actively in a relaxed atmosphere; therefore, the informal lecture is encouraged over the formal. Active student participation can be achieved through the use of questions and is an effective twoway communication process.

C. Preparing for a Lecture Presentation

Establishing the objective and desired outcomes; Researching the subject; Organizing the material Planning productive classroom activities.

D. Presenting the Lesson

A specific instance is a short example. An extended illustration is a single, rather lengthy and detailed example. A comparison is used to bridge the known and the unknown.

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Statistics can be used to clarify or strengthen a point, but must be used carefully and sensibly. Testimonies can give the trainee an example of a real life situation. Visual aids can be used to help clarify and illustrate ideas.

E. Techniques in Lecture Method

Maintain good eye contact. Your eyes as well as your voice communicate to them; and their eyes, facial expressions, and reactions communicate to you.

Maintain a high degree of enthusiasm.

Speak in a natural, conversational voice. Enunciate your words clearly. Make certain the trainees can hear every spoken word.

Check students comprehension carefully throughout the presentation by watching the faces of the students and by questioning. Stimulate students to think (thoughtprovoking questions, class discussions).

Instruct on the class level. Use words, explanations, visual illustrations, questions, and the like, directed to the needs of the average trainee in the class

Emphasize important points by the use of gestures, repetition, and variation in voice inflection.

F. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Lecture

Advantages It is straightforward way to impart knowledge to students quickly. A convenient way to instruct large groups.

It gives direction and purpose to a demonstration or prepare students for a discussion Instructors also have a greater control over what is being taught in the classroom because they are the sole source of information.

 Students who are auditory learners find that lectures appeal to their learning style. Logistically, a lecture is often easier to create than other methods of instruction. Lecture is a method familiar to most teachers because it was typically the way they were taught.

G. Disadvantages
Students strong in learning styles other than auditory learning will have a harder time being engaged by lectures. Students who are weak in note-taking skills will have trouble understanding what they should remember from lectures.

Students can find lectures boring causing them to lose interest. Students may not feel that they are able to ask questions as they arise during lectures. Inhibits student participation.

Teachers may not get a real feel for how much students understand because there is not that much opportunity for exchanges during lectures. It fosters passiveness and teacherdependence.

G. Closing the Lecture

Ensure all answers have been given and offer an outlet to clarify questions that may occur at a later date. Ask for additional questions. Some trainees may have questions, but are too hesitant to raise their hands to ask while you are talking. Finally, close on a positive note. It gives your trainees encouragement, expresses confidence in their abilities, and motivates them.

"A teacher who is attempting to teach without inspiring the pupil with a desire to learn is hammering on a cold iron." ~Horace Mann ~