Instructional Methods and Media That Interest Me Most

My experience as an instructor dates back to the days when lecture augmented with visual aids was the primary method of instruction. In the teaching of mathematics, demonstration also was a key method employed in instruction. Yet, I was able to augment my teaching by using computer-assisted instruction as a medium and to vary the lecture norm by incorporating group work and mathematical games (both class and individual). Since that time, however, a good portion of my career has dealt with computers. So I am naturally drawn to the computer, especially with its explosive growth in capability and portability, as a key medium for instruction. Computers and related devices allow a multimedia approach to instruction. When linked with other computers in a network or through the web, they can serve as a medium for a variety of instructional methods including those mentioned in our 6010 lesson: lecture, demonstration, group work, individualized instruction and discovery learning.

In the future, I anticipate that the computer and its related media will be a primary player in any instructional technology activities in which I am involved. Yet, I'd like to believe that I am open-minded enough to consider both new and old methods and to select whatever media best suits the context, the subject matter, the learning style(s) of the audience, and the goal of instruction before choosing the best components for use in the design, development and delivery of quality instruction.