A Toolbox for Giving Your Laboratory a Pedagological Makeover

 

Mark E. Walvoord & Marielle H. Hoefnagels

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2012, Volume 33

Abstract

Biology instructors should educate themselves in topics related to pedagogy, cognition, and student learning. Some of these topics can impart useful information for helping students learn in a post-secondary, biology laboratory environment. Our workshop included background information and discussion about the psychology of learning, encouraging students’ critical thinking, clicker (Personal Response System) use, and PowerPoint® use. Particular tools that we discussed were the use of Socratic questioning, peer collaboration, and concept mapping as ways to encourage student critical thinking. Our technology section covered clickers, PowerPoint®, and the online resources provided by ABLE.

Keywords:  Powerpoint, clickers, classroom response systems, psychology of learning, self-regulated learning

New Mexico State University (2011)