Presents a checklist for instructors preparing to teach a large geography lecture class. Suggests having enough supplies, especially paper for copying; ordering enough textbooks; making sure that seats have writing surfaces; writing out examination policies; and other time-saving management procedures. (GG)

The six editions of this newsletter provide a forum for the sharing of research findings and instructional strategies by faculty of Western Michigan University on issues connected with critical thinking. Topics addressed include alternative program designs for critical thinking instruction, a philosophical exploration of what critical thinking is,…

A college course in Organizational Communication typically involves the study of how people act within organizations, and why. Instructors should design a course which provides a realistically complex and extensive experiential simulation of organizational social dynamics over time, while still providing adequate theoretical input to facilitate a…

Examined final-year undergraduate responses to innovations to determine whether positive learning outcomes in large classes are possible by increasing the range of work in which students are involved. Straightforward adjustments to approach and style produced both positive learning outcomes and an increase in transferable skills. (RJM)

Theorists and researchers have indicated that the Group Oral Review (GOR) provides valuable classroom interaction. Some objectives of the GOR approach to reading (for developmental studies reading students) are as follows: to reinforce the process used in a reading assignment, to aid development of metacognitive awareness, to emphasize the idea…

Describes the structure of a course for improving oral communication skills of engineering students. Lists suggestions to speakers on preparation, organization, and presentation of material. Additional comments regarding critiques are stated. (RT)

The six editions of the newsletter provide a forum for the sharing of research findings and instructional strategies by faculty of Western Michigan University. Topics addressed include: active learning; lecture variations; lecture techniques; grading student participation; leading discussions; overcoming silence; discussion challenges; course…

The present study drew on existing theories and research to further uncover the mysteries of the college teaching/learning paradigm, particularly the causal links between effective instruction and student learning of novel lecture material. The experimental design involved 380 introductory psychology students and consisted of a Lecture…

Designed specifically for graduate assistants teaching composition at Michigan State University (MSU), this handbook provides a general information base for teaching assistants, offering practical advice and discussing various aspects of course design, classroom practice, and the logistics of teaching at a large public university. A section on…

Information on teaching at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is presented for both new and established teachers. Course and lecture organization, presentation techniques, and teaching aids are covered, along with exams, grading, and teacher evaluation. Class size and composition and classroom…