Classroom learning today has evolved significantly from 30, 20, or even 10 years ago. Technology has been one major factor influencing the classroom. But in many instances, the students themselves are dictating classroom change.
As high schools evolve to bridge the transition to college more seamlessly than ever, teachers are adapting their teaching styles to best prepare their students for college learning.
For parents and their students, understanding the basic teaching styles they may encounter in high school -- and especially at LuHi -- can help you prepare for the classroom experience.
There is no “official” list of teaching styles, this rundown of the five basic teaching styles is based upon insights from Concordia University, Portland:
- The Authority - A traditional lecture-style teacher and classroom experience. This is considered a “traditional” experience because it is tried and true -- teachers have been using this style for centuries to convey important information to students.
- The Demonstrator - Similar to the authority, the demonstrator goes beyond talking about the material and also shows students what they are learning. This is typically done using multimedia presentations, activities, and demonstrations.
- The Facilitator - This style helps students learn how to ask the right questions and think critically in order to gain the knowledge needed, then process it, in order to make a determination.
- The Delegator - With a focus on group work, the delegator often places teachers in the role of observer. He or she places students together into groups to work toward common goals.
- The Hybrid - This “catch-all” style allows teachers to work to their strengths while leaving the flexibility to adapt to the material, or to student strengths.
LuHi nurtures a range of teaching styles to best impact our students.
At Lutheran High, we work with teachers to develop and hone teaching styles that maximize the needs of our students.
You’ll find teachers among our faculty who use all of the methods outlined above. In most LuHi classrooms, you’ll quickly identify a hybrid approach. Our classrooms are bustling, engaging areas with a range of activities, demonstrations, and coaching from our teachers. We are teaching beyond the need to answer questions on tests, but truly understand and gain the ability to implement that information in real-world situations.
Teaching styles are constantly evolving.
As noted above, we work with our teachers to develop and hone their teaching styles to best prepare our students for college and beyond. Our teachers enthusiastically embrace this structure, as it allows them to continuously evolve, grow, and ultimately provide better learning experiences for our students.
LuHi teachers and alumni frequently have candid conversations about student classroom experiences and best practices. Our best teachers take these conversations to heart, and adjust their own curricula accordingly to evolve as college campuses and classrooms similarly evolve.
Our teachers know their material at the highest possible level and have carefully planned out their course progressions. They take great care to encourage learning from any background, and will go to great lengths to ensure that always remains the case.
Students are equipped in their education.
At LuHi, our students are empowered to speak up, ask questions, and offer feedback about their classroom experience. Every LuHi teacher welcomes feedback from students and takes course evaluations very seriously. We want you to do your best and succeed! We pride ourselves in nurturing a highly relational environment where teachers will do everything in their power to help students succeed.
Regardless of teaching style; however, it is most critical for students to understand that they always own their education, not the teacher, school, or classmates. Taking ownership of your education and becoming an active participant will always position you for your best work and highest level of achievement.
