Sunday, February 10, 2008

Powerpoint in the classroom

I think powerpoint can be a very useful classroom tool. It can be an excellent visual aid to support class lectures or discussions. As a student who has a hard time listening to long lectures, powerpoint presentations provide an excellent point of focus for me. The visual dynamic is really helpful in maintaining my attention. Also, I think powerpoint presentations are great ways to study what has been taught. I always appreciate it when a teacher makes copies of a powerpoint presentation available to the class. This way I can easily review the main points from each lesson.

I think powerpoint can also be used as a hands-on tool in class. Having students create their own powerpoint presentations is an excellent way to make them responsible for their own learning. I have also enjoyed using powerpoint for games like jeopardy in the classroom.

However, it is imortant to remember that too much of anything can become monotonous. Powerpoint should be used as a support tool, not as an entire teaching method. For instance, when using powerpoint with a classroom lecture, a teacher should not read straight from the slides. Instead, a teacher should use the powerpoint as a structural guideline or as a springboard for discussion.

In conclusion, I think powerpoint is a wonderful classroom tool when used in moderation.

3 comments:

sampedro said...

I agree. PowerPoint should never substitute all the other teaching methods. It is boring and it's also a lot of work!
The idea of students making their own PP is something I have used for classes focusing on foreign culture. They have prepared a presentation about other countries cultures, history, etc. with their own texts and images...and it has been a lot of fun always. What kind of PP your students make?

Tracy Jabbal said...

hey ken,
i liked your ppt! it was so thorough but at the same time brief!
it funny b/c i think everybody is pretty much on the same page with ppt in the classroom: good interactive tool as long as it is not overused. i am right there with you!

Dr. L said...

Nice job with both your powerpoint and with your post - it shows a lot of reflection and critical thought! 10/10