Instructional Strategies

There are numerous instructional strategies that teachers can choose to use in their classroom. While no strategy is superior, teachers must decide which one will best fit the needs of their class depending upon the composition of the students, student learning styles, classroom environment and the objectives that are being taught. Some examples of different instructional strategies include: lecture, discussion, activities, storytelling, independent study, small group instruction and peer instruction (Simonds & Cooper, 2011) 
 
Lecture
 
This is an instructional strategy in which the teacher does the majority, if not all, of the talking. During a lecture the teacher will present a large amount of information in an efficient manner; giving directions, providing information and conducting evaluations.

Advantages: Lectures are flexible and easily adapted to a particular group of students. They cover a great deal of information in a short time period and provides reinforcement for students.
 
Disadvantages: Lectures are very impersonal which can affect student learning. The students can also become confused with the vast amount of information that is covered. It is difficult for many students to pay close attention because they are not actively engaged in the lesson. Lectures also do not address the different learning styles of the students.
 
It is beneficial for teachers that use the lecture strategy to ensure that the lesson is engaging and uses visual aides. It is also necessary for the teachers to allow students enough time to process all of the information that is being taught during the lecture.

Considerations when implementing the lecture strategy:

As a teacher you must think about what you are saying and communicate the information in a clear and concise manner. It is also important to support and reinforce your ideas with your face, body and voice. It is essential to adapt to your students and their needs as well when delivering the message.

 
Discussion
 
This is an instructional strategy where the teacher acts more of a facilitator instead of the sole contributor of the information that is being provided. When having class discussions, students are able to express themselves, defend their points of view and expose others to a variety of ideas, beliefs and information that is different than their own. 
 
Advantages: The concept of two heads are better than one come into play with the discussion
strategy. Discussions will offer more ideas and resources. Students also enjoy the activities and the feedback that discussions can provide.

Disadvantages: Class discussions often take a considerable amount of time. They also require that the teachers and students have positive discussion skills. 

Considerations when implementing the discussion strategy:

Teachers that lead a class discussion must be very prepared. They need to ensure that they have a sufficient amount of questions that will start the discussions. Teachers also need to be prepared to help or interact with the students to allow for the discussion to flow . Some students will not participate as much as others, so the teacher needs to be ready to probe students or redirect them to encourage participation. Teachers need to ensure that the discussions are inclusive of all students. A major factor in fostering successful discussions is being able to relinquish full control as the teacher and allow the students to do the majority of the talking. Teachers and students must use their listening skills as well to promote successful class discussions.


Small Group

According to Simonds and Cooper (2011), it is important that teachers provide their students with small group communication. The more opportunities that the students have to "try out" their behavior in small groups and to internalize the mirrored reactions of others to these behaviors, the more effective communicators the students will be able to be.

Advantages: Small group instruction fosters positive attitudes towards the material being taught. This strategy also motivates the students because they enjoy working together in small groups. Students are also able to develop their problem-solving and decision-making skills when sharing their ideas with other students for critiquing and comparison.

 

Considerations when implementing the small group teaching strategy:

The role of the teacher during small group instruction becomes more of an academic counselor or consultant. This strategy is based on collaborative learning where the teacher must clearly define the tasks and roles of each member in the group.

 

When working in small groups, there are many different types of tasks that can be accomplished. Some of these include problem solving, research, debates, role-play and simulation games.

 Storytelling

Storytelling is another type of an instructional strategy that can be used each day in the classroom. Stories are often used to introduce a unit of instruction or to explain difficult concepts. Teachers and students also use storytelling to share about their lives and different experiences. Stories can enrich the classroom learning experiences because they are appealing and entertaining to the students. When used appropriately, storytelling can be very effective because they often motivate students and encourage an appreciation of literature.

 (Simonds & Cooper, 2011)