Teaching Tips

As a new or experienced instructor, here are a few tips that you can quickly implement to further your teaching practice.

Consider your course content

Ensure that all activities and content are related to the learning outcomes for your course or session -- visit the Constructive Alignment section of the site for more on this.
Aim to break your course content into a number of smaller segments rather than one continuous lecture for each class. This can be particularly helpful for online or hybrid courses.

Become comfortable with periods of silence in your class. Many people need time to formulate their ideas and questions.
Ask students what they think about the specific strategies you are using -- visit the Feedback section of the site for more on this.
Bring the type of energy and enthusiasm to the course that you expect from students.

Continuously reflect on your teaching practice. Whether you keep a journal of strategies you have tried and the outcomes you observed; connect with trusted colleagues to discuss your classes; engage in professional development opportunities which allow you to examine elements of your role as a teacher; meet with someone from the Teaching and Learning Centre to talk about your concerns, successes and questions regarding your practice - or a combination of some or all of these options - it is good to take the time to consider how things are going and how you might make changes as you move forward.
Be kind to yourself and keep in mind that good teaching involves continuous learning.