It is always best to
reflect and grow on past experiences. A
few weeks ago I was asked to teach a professional development class (3 hours)
to my fellow colleagues on creating flipcharts and using ActivInspire
Promethean software. Although receiving
wonderful feedback from my peers, I felt as though the overall effectiveness of
the class was not as good as I wanted it to be.
Prior to the class, I thought about the A.D.D.I.E.
model. I had sent out a survey asking
questions about what the learners hoped to get out of the class. From feedback I saw that they needed a review
of the basics and then the steps needed to create activities for their students
to do with the Promethean. I asked my
peers to bring their laptops for the reason that they would be doing to steps
along with me. I provided flashcards so
that they may create a resources book to have handy when working on their
own.
Overall, I think the positives were, I took the time to
describe all of the tools and basics that are needed to just operate and
navigate the software first. I took them
step-by-step through the steps on how to create “hide/show” objects, and boxes
for them to have the children sort and move objects. While talking, I had my peers doing the
steps. Many thought this was wonderful
because they were able to try and I was there to answer questions and provide
more guidance if needed.
Items that I could have improved on were, providing the
steps in a written format for them. I
thought with the flashcards they could write them in a way that they would
remember them, but it turns out, most would have just like to have them my
way. Another aspect that I will improve
next time, is dividing the class into a novice/intermediate class. While I had to take the time to assist some
in a more detailed one on one base, the others were ready to move on and learn
more. I felt bad, that I wasn’t able to challenge them and show them more
techniques.
Even though my peers
were thankful and gave me a good review, I would have liked feeling better in
the end. I have been asked to present
and teach more in a few months, and I am already looking ahead to add some of
the changes I feel will be more effective.
This is such great insight. We used SmartBoards at my last location and I had a similar experience. I like how you surveyed your audience prior to the workshop. That gives you an idea of how to setup your training. I think we always try to be perfect in areas we are passionate about. Just by your post, the workshop sounded very informative and organized. I have been to many workshops that didn't teach me what I was looking forward. Good Job
ReplyDeleteThe more you do it the better you will get at it!