subject: Postgraduate Learning In The United States. Techniques Of Teaching [print this page] The system of American postgraduate education differs greatly from European one.
Classes in universities generally take up only about fifteen hours weekly. Nevertheless, there may be optional hours of laboratory work. The rest of the time between classes is for study and entertainment. The common course involves three hours of lectures every week, an extra laboratory discussion section, reading tasks, quizzes and tests, a mid-term exam, and one or more research paperworks or projects.
There are several sorts of methods which can be used in college:
1.The lecture method. The method is popular with college teachers. At present a student shouldn't write everything after the lecturer. Generally a lecture is read for a big audience formally.
2.Discussions are utilized by many instructors. This method is known for its interaction between a teacher and a learner. Students learn not only how to express ideas but also to speak on diverse topics. Discussion differs from the lecture method greatly. First of all, an amount of students for discussions is small. Large groups are arranged for lectures. Secondly, the atmosphere is formal on the lecture, but during the discussion it is more informal. The main goal of discussions is to involve learners into debate, make them think critically.
3.Seminars are held in small groups of learners. The goal of this method is to investigate a scientific problem in different academic areas: literature, chemistry, physics, etc.
4.Lab sections. Several academic fields are taught in two aspects: theoretical and also practical. Laboratories are required to apply practically the theoretic information obtained before. In other words, labs are organized to consolidate educational accomplishments.
5.Clinical experiences and also internships are required for social disciplines.
