Effective Teaching in Higher Education

Group tasks give variation to learning.

Teaching to students of higher education in a college or university requires clear communication alongside thorough subject knowledge. In "Effective Teaching in Higher Education," Madeline Atkins and George Brown identify effective teaching as that which is "systematic, stimulating and caring."

Aims

Aim to teach students to think for themselves, rather than feeding them answers. Learning rote facts may suit some lower levels of education, but higher education aims to produce students who have the tools to interpret data in fresh ways and pioneer ideas.

Methods

Use a balance of teaching methods, including not only lecturing but supervised research, small group tutoring, hands-on lab work and discussion. Effective university teaching should encourage students to continue learning and research outside the classroom.

Tasks

Set engaging tasks that encourage students to seek rewards other than simply getting good grades. Tasks that require creativity, stimulate curiosity and challenge preconceived ideas provide motivation for the higher education student.

References

• "Effective Teaching in Higher Education"; George Brown, Madeleine Atkins; 1988
• "Effective Teaching in Higher Education: Research and Practice"; Raymond P. Perry, John C. Smart (editors); 1997