Beyond Survival: The New Teacher Podcast
A Masterclass on Explanations
May 3, 2023
Colin McGill, a programme leader in the PGDE at Edinburgh Napier University, shares his expertise on delivering effective explanations in education. He highlights common mistakes new teachers make and discusses the 'curse of knowledge,' which can hinder clear communication. Colin offers practical strategies to simplify explanations, prevent cognitive overload, and enhance student engagement. He emphasizes the balance between storytelling and clarity while stressing the importance of assessing comprehension in the classroom.
43:58
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Quick takeaways
- New teachers often mistakenly minimize explanations, overlooking their vital role in facilitating student understanding and engagement.
- The 'curse of knowledge' leads experienced teachers to forget beginners' challenges, necessitating clear, simplified explanations that build on students' prior knowledge.
Deep dives
The Importance of Effective Explanations
One major mistake often made by new teachers is the reluctance to provide clear explanations in the classroom, stemming from a belief that teacher talk should be minimized. This misconception can hinder effective teaching, as giving well-structured explanations is vital for student understanding. Teachers must embrace their role as facilitators of learning, recognizing that clear communication of new concepts, skills, and procedures is crucial for student success. Moreover, over-reliance on PowerPoint and the expectation that visual aids alone will convey information can lead to diminished engagement, highlighting the need for interactive and direct teacher-led explanations.
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