Maximize Student Engagement with the Implementation of Instructional or Classroom Strategies: A Comprehensive Guide

1st September 2023

As the days are passing by, teachers are getting more aware that they need to upgrade their teaching style and need to adopt different teaching strategies to make students comfortable in the learning environment and they love the learning process.

One of the effective ways is the use of Instructional strategies, which are also known as Teaching strategies or Classroom strategies. Its purpose is basically to help all learners to meet their academic and learning goals. This strategy is generally divided into 5 parts: Direct, Indirect, Experiential, Interactive, and Independent.
 

Source: researchgate.net
 

Those teachers, who have pursued courses like the International teaching diploma, know the importance of implementing instructional strategies according to the learner’s needs.

However, in this blog post, we will get to know some of the unique and effective instructional strategies and ways of teaching that you can use to create a fun and inclusive learning environment.

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So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

What are Instructional Strategies?

Instructional strategies also known as Teaching strategies or Classroom Strategies are methods or techniques used by teachers to meet and achieve learning objectives. It encompasses a wide range of teaching approaches and activities that helps the students to acquire the required knowledge and learning skill.

There are different types of instructional strategies such as- Direct, Indirect, Experimental, Interactive, and Independent Instructional strategies, which encompass many teaching, or classroom strategies under each type.

Now, let's get to know some of the most unique but effective teaching or classroom strategies that you can use in the classroom.

1. Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is one of the indirect learning methods which helps students to find solutions of problems by doing practical activities. Teachers can present students with unique problems, which require critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. With the help of STEM challenges, such as- building blocks, science experiments are great examples of problem-solving instructional strategies.

2. Didactic Questioning

Didactic questioning involves the teacher asking questions to assess students' understanding of the material. Typically, these questions start with "Who," "What," "Where," and "When." By prompting students to think critically and engage in dialogue, teachers can gauge their comprehension and provide targeted support and feedback.

3. Demonstration

Demonstration is a direct instruction method where students observe the teacher performing a specific action or skill. This can involve solving a math problem step-by-step or demonstrating proper handwriting techniques. Following the demonstration, students engage in hands-on practice or activities to reinforce their understanding and application of the demonstrated skills.

4. Story-telling

Storytelling has been used as a teaching method for centuries, captivating learners and facilitating the transfer of knowledge. Whether through real-life stories or fictional narratives, storytelling engages students' imagination and emotions, making the learning experience more memorable and relatable.

5. Drill & Practice

Drill and practice is a traditional instructional strategy that involves repetitive exercises to reinforce specific information or master step-by-step skills. Flashcards for math facts or spelling words are examples of drill and practice activities. This strategy is particularly effective for memorization and skill development.

6. Spaced Repetition

Spaced repetition is a method that involves recalling information or skills at increasingly longer intervals. By revisiting previously learned material at strategic intervals, students reinforce their knowledge and enhance long-term retention. This strategy is particularly useful for topics that students need to remember beyond immediate use, such as preparing for final exams.

7. Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning provides students with opportunities to learn through experiential and indirect strategies. By engaging in real-world problem-solving, students develop critical thinking skills and apply their knowledge through research, collaboration, and hands-on experiences. Project-based learning empowers students to take ownership of their education and fosters a deeper understanding of concepts.

8. Concept Mapping

Concept mapping is a visual instructional strategy or classroom strategy that helps students break down subjects into main points and establish connections between them. By organizing information in a graphical format, students can better understand complex concepts and identify relationships between different ideas.

9. Reading for Meaning

Reading for meaning is a strategy where students use texts, whether print or digital, to learn about a specific topic. This goes beyond basic reading skills and focuses on comprehension and extracting meaning from the text. Strong reading comprehension skills are essential for students to effectively learn from written materials.

10. Field Trips

Field trips offer students the chance to learn outside the classroom, experiencing real-world applications of concepts and skills. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, or natural environments, field trips provide valuable experiential learning opportunities that enhance students' understanding and engagement.

11. Games

Games are considered to be one of the fun and effective ways to engage students in learning. Educational games designed for specific subjects can be used to reinforce knowledge and skills. Even traditional board games can promote indirect learning in areas such as math, reading, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

12. Simulations

Simulations is one of the effective classroom strategies, which combine experiential, interactive, and indirect learning methods into one comprehensive strategy. Through simulated real-world activities or experiences, students take on roles and participate in the exercise, applying existing knowledge, and developing new skills. Reflection on the experience further enhances learning.

13. Peer Instruction

Peer instruction leverages the "Protege Effect method," wherein students learn best by teaching others. This strategy involves students teaching and instructing their peers on a specific topic. By explaining concepts and answering questions, students deepen their understanding and retention of the material.

14. Class or Small-Group Discussion

Class, small-group, and pair discussions facilitate interactive learning by allowing students to share their thoughts, experiences, and opinions on a given topic. Through discussion, students clarify their own thinking, learn from their peers, and develop active listening and collaboration skills.

15. Fishbowl

The fishbowl method takes classroom discussions to the next level by creating a structured environment. A small group of students sits in the centre, discussing and debating a topic, while their classmates silently observe and take notes. Eventually, the discussion is opened to the whole class, who offer feedback and present their own assertions and challenges.

16. Role-Playing

Role-playing is one of the effective classroom strategies, which provides students with opportunities to practice and develop soft skills while focusing on social-emotional learning. By adapting both positive and negative interactions, students gain a deeper understanding of effective communication and empathy.

17. Think-Pair-Share

Think-pair-share is a structured discussion technique that encourages student participation in a low-pressure environment. Students first think about a question posed by the teacher, then pair up to discuss their answers. Finally, the discussion is open to the whole class, promoting active engagement and confidence in sharing ideas.

18. Jigsaw

Jigsaw is a cooperative learning strategy that encourages students to become experts in specific topics and share their knowledge with their peers. Students are assigned specialized topics and work collaboratively to research, discuss, and teach their findings to the rest of the class. This strategy promotes active engagement, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the material.

Instructional or Classroom Strategies Can Do Wonders For Students

As the year is progressing, student's way of learning and the way of acquiring knowledge is changing. Teachers now must be able to adapt to these changes to cater to the learning requirements of their students. Those teachers, who have pursued courses like the International teaching diploma, know the several different instructional or classroom strategies with which they can make learning fun and interactive for students.

However, you can also get to know many instructional or classroom strategies in the above-mentioned blog and implement them in your classroom to make learning inclusive and engaging for your students.

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Written By : Abhishek