This instructional technique comes from CTLT’s Instructional Skills Workshop materials. How do you think this technique can and should be adapted to interdisciplinary learning contexts and content?

Lecture

A lecture is an oral presentation by a qualified person. The pattern of communication is primarily a one-way transmission of information from instructor to learners.

The lecture may be a suitable technique when:

• the basic instructional task is to give information
• the information is not readily available some other way
• there is established learner interest in the subject
• the material is intended for short-term retention
• introducing a subject or giving directions for learning tasks that will be developed through other techniques

Instructor’s Role

• The lecture’s effectiveness will be increased if:
  • the material is meaningful
  • erbal illustrations are similar to learners’ experiences
  • summaries are presented at beginning and end
  • the lecture is accompanied by techniques and/or instructional devices that allow learners to participate

Learners’ Role

• listen, think, take notes
• prepare questions for clarification during or after the lecture