Our teaching style

As you may be aware we have a specific teaching style we would like you to follow:

• We have a student centric teaching style. We run classes in small groups of 4-5 students on average. Our approach is hands-on, combining introductory concepts and theory with plenty of hands-on learning opportunities.

• For each course, we have a pre-prepared module you are asked to review and consult in preparation for the course. Instructor and student materials are all included.

Course specificities
At the end of each course, you will be asked to sign a certificate and an individual feedback form for each child. We also get our student’s feedback at the end of each course which is then shared with instructors.

Quality Guidelines for teaching at TechSpark Academy

Please keep the below quality guidelines in mind when teaching for TechSpark Academy. These guidelines are shared with each TechSpark Academy instructor before each new camp.

Expectations
• On day 1 ask students what their course expectations are and write them on a flip chart.
• If they have no idea, that’s OK too… (but they probably will)
• Revisit on last day after the electronic survey to see how objectives were met. (NB: It is important that this be done after the survey, as you want survey feedback to be spontaneous and not influenced by the feedback of another student).

Theory and Practice
• You do not need to spend much time on theory. The course is axed on the practical
• However, always, always, always define terms before using them

Make your logic overt (i.e. known to your audience)
• Tell them WHAT you are going to do before you do it
• Tell them WHY you are doing it, and WHY it is important

Q&A
• When someone asks a good question, stop the class for a few minutes, repeat the question, and see if someone wants to explain it – very important
• Then explain the concept of the question and answer it
• Validate student understanding; if not yet clear, explain it in another way, use schematics/imagery and examples as may be needed
• NB: this is a good way to share learning

Slow down to the ability of your audience
• Do not try to go forward too fast. If you cannot finish the module no problem. Very important!
• Remember, “less can be more”
• You do not have to meet a specific “deadline or destination; there is no test or formal evaluation at the end (only a survey to get general feedback)
• You want your audience to take away something tangible (i.e. a project with a simple game for ex.) even if very limited…not confusion!
• Allow better students to help others (if they wish, no need to push them to do so)

Make appropriate use of breaks
• Take appropriate breaks and encourage students to go outside, get fresh air, kick a ball, or go for a walk (not too far!!)