IDEA Notes on Instruction

These succinct Notes are useful to anyone wanting to address specific ways to employ different teaching methods – each of which are central to the IDEA Student Ratings of Instruction System.

• Found ways to help students answer their own questions
• Helped students to interpret subject matter from diverse perspectives
• Encouraged students to reflect on and evaluate what they have learned
• Demonstrated the importance and significance of the subject matter
• Formed teams or discussion groups to facilitate learning
• Made it clear how each topic fits into the course
• Provided meaningful feedback on students’ academic performance
• Stimulated students to intellectual effort beyond that required by most courses
• Encouraged students to use multiple resources (e.g., Internet, library holdings, outside experts) to improve understanding
• Explained course material clearly and concisely
• Related course material to real-life situations
• Created opportunities for students to apply course content outside the classroom
• Introduced stimulating ideas about the subject
• Involved students in “hands-on” projects such as research, case studies, or real-life activities
• Inspired students to set and achieve goals which really challenged them
• Asked students to share ideas and experiences with others whose backgrounds and viewpoints differ from their own
• Asked students to help each other understand ideas or concepts
• Gave projects, tests, or assignments that required original or creative thinking
• Encouraged student-faculty interaction outside of class