Learning outcome:
- LO2: Use the principles of backward design to create, deliver and evaluate teaching practices.
Sample microteaching sessions
To complete the assignment in this unit, you will need to watch one of the sample microteaching sessions that follow. The first video deals with a lesson topic aligned with STEM disciplines and the second video aligns with Humanities disciplines. Choose the sample that is closest to your field of teaching. The aim of analyzing a sample is to prepare you for your own microteaching video session in Unit 2. By considering the choices made by the teacher in your chosen sample and thinking about what it is like to be a student in this teacher’s classroom, you should identify elements of presentation that you can emulate or choices that you will try to avoid.
Consider the following five aspects while viewing the sample:
- Topic: Has the teacher considered the audience and pitched the topic accordingly? Has the teacher limited their focus to meet what students can learn in a short amount of time? In what ways has the teacher made (or failed to make) the topic accessible, used real-life examples, and asked questions?
- Introduction: Does the teacher get students’ attention (use a hook), state or write their topic clearly, provide context for the material (why is the topic important?), and give a brief overview of major points? Thinking about the principles of backward design, can you identify the learning outcome that the introduction (and rest of the presentation) was meant to address? If so, how did that become clear?
- Body: How are transition words and strategies used (if they are) to present material in a clear and organized way? How does the teacher check for comprehension (if they do), ask questions, provide examples, and get students involved?
- Conclusion: How are key points summarized (if they are) or a take-home message emphasized? Does the teacher provide room for questions here or at other moments in the presentation?
- Manner: How does the teacher convey enthusiasm, make eye contact, use positive body language, encourage participation and feedback, and focus on the students? Are there missed opportunities to do any of these things?
Video 1: An example of a microteaching session aligned with STEM disciplines.
Video 2: An example of a microteaching session aligned with Humanities disciplines.