Improving secondary biology teaching techniques

Abstract

Scope of Study: The scheduling of time devoted to biology is out of the hands of the classroom teacher. The amount of learning that takes place during that period, however, is the direct responsibility of the teacher. Some of the methods used to improve the accomplishments of each student are discussed. The study is not exhaustive, but many suggestions are given to aid the biology teacher in doing his best for each student.

Findings and Conclusions: Assignments must be made in a positive way so that the student will know what is expected of him. Workbooks may be used to provide for individual initiative and flexibility in the laboratory periods. There should be definite correlation between the laboratory and the class discussions. In the laboratory the students should develop basic techniques. Motivation turns work into enjoyment; yet motivation is the door to accomplishment. There are several methods of motivation: knowledge, humor, enthusiasm, reference to the familiar, school marks, praise, success, social approval, ideals, honors, rivalry, and, as a last resort, compulsion. The teacher is wise who can make use of most of these.