Students access information in a variety of formats, including audio, visual, and kinesthetic. Multiple formats increase the effectiveness of instruction.
Tips
Audio
- Repeat questions asked in class so students hear the question clearly before you respond.
- Avoid pronouns such as this and that when giving instructions or directions.
- Read overheads/slides out loud so that students can get the information both visually and auditorily.
- Allow students to record lectures or make copies of the lectures available in the library or online.
Visual
- Use a large font size (18 point or larger) for projected presentations so they can be seen more easily. Also, use contrasting colors and simple designs. While black and white print provides contrast, some colors (such as yellow) are better background colors and reduce glare.
- Leave overheads/slides up long enough for students to take notes.
- Use captioned videos whenever possible. Captions help many students including international students, students with hearing impairments, students at the back of the room, and all students when the acoustics and/or audio quality are poor.
Kinesthetic
- Use a variety of teaching strategies in addition to lecturing, such as models, animations, raised-line drawings, field trips, discussion groups, etc.
Source: ASD Project, Utah State University, Version 4.0, copyright 2003-2006.