The entire class ran for approximately 50 minutes, in a very relaxed and friendly environment. The students knew each other well and were mostly grouped (naturally I'm assuming) with others of their own culture (Koreans with Koreans and Middle Eastern with Middle Eastern). There was plenty of teacher-student and student-student interaction, especially because the activity that they were going over required everyone's participation.
In the beginning of class, Olga asked everyone to take out their notes from the class before about the video interviews that they watched and asked to share what everyone wrote down. Some students had more information to share than others, most likely due to slightly differing levels of listening skills but sharing information engaged students to participate with each other.
While students give their responses, Olga also added what they had to say to their notes, I'm guessing to later somehow assess them on their responses and see if they're paying attention.
The main materials that were used for the class are the video, notes, and the book given to the students in class in a form of a binder. I think it's helpful that the textbooks come in that format because students can take notes directly in it, thus making it more organized and interactive.
Overall, I think Olga did a successful job at teaching the listening portion of class and interacting with students in a way that put them at ease. I think that in an environment in which the student feels comfortable is the one in which they will be more productive.
Overall, I learned how to teach listening skills, something that will be beneficial to me since one of my tutoring partners lacks in that area so now I have a better idea of how to help him.
I got to observe Olga's class as well. I thought she had a great rapport with her students, and pointed out their mistakes in a very kind way. It was good to see.
ReplyDeleteGood observation of the books and how they interact with them.
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