Learning Together

Learners take in new information and connect it with what they already know.  Learners, not teachers, decide what is important to remember and useful to know.  Teachers, on the other hand, work to be creative, to present new information they think is important to learn in ways that are engaging and fun.  Teachers know that learners are more likely to engage in fun learning experiences, and more likely to remember them.

This video presents strategies that you can use as you prepare to teach.  It includes tips for teaching something you don’t know much about and building on your strengths and passions when you teach.

As you watch the video, think about:

• What types of learning experiences appeal to you? Remember, everyone learns in their own way – not all learners like to learn the way you do.  But you are a better teacher when you lean into your strengths.
• What do you think makes a good teacher?

Remember these key strategies for preparing to teach a lesson. 

1. Read through the activity or lesson before you start.
2. Think about how the activity will work – think about the supplies and space you will need. Plan for how you will use them, so you have more time for learning and interacting with youth.
3. Decide what you want the kids to learn and how you can help them feel confident and connected. Set your learning goal.
4. Be ready to ask questions that help the kids figure it out – even if you are not sure what they should be doing. Use your questions to focus attention on your learning goal.

Now that you’ve watched the video, apply what you’ve learned.

• Find an activity you want to teach. Try using CLOVER by 4-H to find an activity.  You can sort by topic, the grades you’re teaching, even how much time you have.
• Try out these strategies as you plan a new activity.