In a logic ofeducational engineering, there are numerous teaching methods aimed at supporting learners and maintaining their attention.
Here are 5 methods you should know.
Each trainer finds himself one day having to choose a teaching method according to the message he wants to transmit or the target of targeted learners. We offer you a non-exhaustive list, knowing that there is no single and unanimous definition of teaching method. On the other hand, it is possible to agree on the fact that a pedagogical method is a means used to develop learning and fulfill a specific pedagogical objective.
Any teaching method is subject to change and must be questioned after each training course.. The role of the trainer is to ensure that his approach is well adapted to learners and educational goals targeted.
Understanding teaching methods: definition and origins
According to Philippe Meirieu, a French educational researcher and professor of educational sciences at the University of Lumière-Lyon 2, there is three main definitions of the pedagogical method :
- Educational trends: These trends include consistent practices such as traditional, new, or active methods.
- The types of learning activities: This includes methods such as the global reading method or scheduled instruction.
- Specialized tools: These tools are used for specific situations and allow the chosen methodology to be implemented and put into practice.
These three concepts are closely linked and are influenced by values, scientific knowledge and tools. A pedagogical model requires a harmonious combination of these 3 elements.
The expositive method
The learner applying this approach considers that knowledge is knowledge that is beneficial to learners. In the same vein, a professional will assimilate work to know-how that is beneficial to interns.
The roles are as follows: the trainer has the knowledge, the learner knows nothing and must learn everything. The first is therefore the only one who can transmit knowledge and will do so in the form of a presentation.
Lecturers at the university use the expositive method.
To implement an expositive method, it is important to follow these five steps: context, goals, medium, content, and location. The objectives are determined by the trainer, the medium is chosen according to the intended audience, and the content must be consistent with the objectives.
The advantages of the expositive method
The advantages of this type of expositive method are summarized in its time saving, costs and resources, because it allows a rapid transmission of information in a structured manner to a very large number of individuals.
In addition, she does not does not require the complex design of a training course, it may have previously been designed by another person
The disadvantages of the expositive method
There are also disadvantages to this method, such as passivity of learners, the lack of regulation of their concentration level as well as the absence of active actions on their part.
The affirmative method
The affirmative method allows learners to discover new content. Like the expository method, it is based on the presentation. The main differences concern the means of implementation and the roles assigned to trainers and learners.
The roles are as follows: the trainer gives a demonstration by showing the learners the different stages of implementation (it explains what to do and how to do it). Learners are trained by reproducing the same gestures as the trainer.
Tutorials that require demonstration use the affirmative method.
The advantages of the affirmative method
The advantages of the affirmative method lie in the discovery of new content by learners. This type of pedagogy is easy to apply and adaptable to various situations, offering a clear structure for understanding.
The disadvantages of the affirmative method
This type of method also has limitations such as: the lack of knowledge assessment, there is no no direct contact between the teacher and his learners. There is also a risk of boredom for participants.
The interrogative method
Based on the Maieutics of Socrates. This method actively involves learners in the learning process by asking key questions.
The interrogative method allows the trainer to adapt his course according to the answers given by the learners. This means of transmitting knowledge is based on the fact that knowledge of a process or concept cannot be learned if it has not been understood beforehand by the learner.
The roles are as follows: The trainer is the one who has the knowledge and know-how and asks questions to the learners. Learners generally have the necessary prerequisites to follow the training and will acquire new knowledge by answering the trainer's questions.
Training courses aimed at bringing the learner to a certain level of reflection or intellectual autonomy use the interrogative method.
The advantages of the interrogative method
Learners are actively involved in the learning process. This therefore allows a greater motivation and also a valorization of success.
This activation of the reward system promotes memory through personal discovery and allows continuous feedback between learners and the trainer to assess their understanding.
The disadvantages of the interrogative method
This method is mainly suitable for small groups of learners because of its interactive aspect. It also requires intensive preparation for the teacher and can be time consuming. It is a type of pedagogy that requires substantial work beforehand.
The discovery method
The discovery method, also called the active method, goes against “classical” teaching methods. The premise of this method is that knowledge can be built and not learned, with action as the main lever.
The roles are as follows: The trainer does not necessarily have all the knowledge and is more of a guide or mediator by creating an educational scenario. The learner gains knowledge through research and error.
Training courses aimed at giving the learner a certain level of technical mastery of a tool use the discovery method.
The advantages of the discovery method
This method encourages the active engagement of the learner, thus promoting the long-term motivation and effective memorization. It allows a personalizing the learning experience, developing skills of independence, problem solving and creativity.
The disadvantages of the discovered method
Research suggests that this approach may not be effective for beginner and intermediate learners, as it may result in a cognitive overload.
Les measurable performances may also be poorer than those obtained with more structured methods. It should therefore be borne in mind that this methodology applies to a specific target.
The experiential method
This last pedagogical method actively involves students in the training process by engaging them in first-hand experiences and encouraging them to think in a focused manner.
The experiential learning approach is based on the idea that students need to participate actively to develop their skills and build their understanding. Instructors use experiences and reflections to facilitate learning.
Instructors guide students through the process by asking stimulating questions and facilitating discussions. Students, on the other hand, contribute their experience and their thinking to build their own understanding.
Experiential learning is particularly effective for training aimed at develop critical thinking, active engagement, and practical application of knowledge.
The advantages of the experiential method
The advantages of this type of pedagogy lie in the fact that it is essential in certain disciplines where practical experience is crucial. It places the learner at core of the learning process, encourages exchanges and group reflection, thus enriching the experience
The disadvantages of the experiential method
This learning method is not suitable for all disciplines, especially those where concrete practice is difficult to achieve. It also requires a significant preparation for the trainer in the design of the upstream experiences.
To conclude, it is effective with small groups and therefore less suitable for a single participant or large groups.
The educational tools to be put in place
Now that we've explored the 5 main teaching methods, let's look at the educational tools to be put in place in these processes.
There are several types educational toolss, which we will detail below:
Visual and interactive supports:
- Presentation materials: They are used to display visual and textual information when presenting content (books, articles, etc...).
- Videos: They offer an immersive method for transmitting concepts and information easily (educational videos, webinars, online courses).
- Real supports: They are tangible objects used for practical demonstrations, such as tools or reproductions.
Presentation and visual capture tools:
- Interactive boards: they allow visual content to be displayed interactively.
- Digital cameras: they are used to document classroom activities, lab experiences, and field trips.
Educational audio media:
Educational media can also take the form of audio content (podcasts, conferences, audiobooks).
Online training technologies:
- E-learning tools: These are online platforms that offer interactive courses, quizzes, and training.
- Learning Management Systems (LMS): They are dedicated web platforms that allow educators to create, manage, and pilot online courses, assess student progress, and provide educational content remotely.
- Mobile learning: this includes the use of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to access educational content anytime, anywhere. This includes educational apps, podcasts, and videos.
Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR):
- Virtual reality: It allows students to interact with environments and digital objects in a realistic manner.
- Augmented reality: It superimposes digital elements onto the real world, creating an immersive learning experience.
Gamification tools:
In another category, these tools involve the use of game design elements in non-game contexts, such as education. This may include points, badges, rankings, and awards to motivate learners.
Choose the ideal teaching tool according to your needs and resources
When choosing the ideal teaching tool, it is crucial to consider several key factors:
- Make sure to align the tool with the learning objectives to ensure its relevance.
- Evaluate the quality of the tool in terms of precision, reliability and credibility.
- Consider the needs, preferences, and abilities of students.
- Respect them institution security standards and policies, confidentiality and ethics.
- Test and evaluate tools before use in the classroom to ensure their effectiveness during practice.
In conclusion, pedagogical methods and tools in vocational and non-vocational training are essential to offer a rewarding learning experience.
It is essential to understand these different pedagogical approaches and to choose wisely the adapted tools, you can create effective and engaging courses for your learners.
Remember that Adaptability is key, because each group of learners has specific needs.
