Teaching Variation Techniques

The Skills of Variation

• Teachers can vary their presentation methods to keep students engaged
• Teacher variation:
  • Movement: Teachers can move around the classroom to keep students alert
  • Gestures: Teachers can use body language effectively to emphasize points, natural movements are best
  • Varying Speech Pattern: Teachers can change the speed, volume, or pitch of their voice to engage students
  • Students Verbal Participation: Teachers should involve all students in discussions and ask questions
  • Using Different Senses: Teachers can use varying tools to engage different senses, like pictures, models, or activities
  • Students' Physical Activities: Teachers can incorporate activities like dramatization or manipulation of objects to engage students

Guidelines in the Use of Variation Skills

• Teachers must be clear on the purpose of variations used
• Variations should be introduced smoothly to maintain the flow of the lesson
• Teachers should plan and organize their lessons, especially when using audio-visual aids
• Teachers should adjust their use of variations based on student feedback

The Skill of Explaining

• Explaining is the process of providing information for understanding, there are three main types:
  • Interpretative: Explains the meaning of a term or statement
  • Descriptive: Describes processes, structures, and procedures
  • Reason-Giving: Explains the reasons behind something

Skill Components of Explaining

• Introduction:
  • Use of Keys: Clearly highlighting important factors
  • Use of Examples: Utilizing different examples to clarify
  • Conclusion/Summary: Bringing together key points and making conclusions
• Presentation Component:
  • Use of Clarity: Using appropriate language and relevant illustrations for clarity
  • Uses of Emphasis Variation: Changing voice, pitch, and tone to emphasize points
  • Use of Emphasis Pointers, Links, and Priorities: Providing clear direction and importance
  • Avoiding Vagueness: Using precise language and giving clear examples
  • Sequential and Logical Presentation: Organizing information logically and sequentially
  • Feedback: Monitoring student understanding and opening opportunities for interaction

The Skill of Reinforcement

• Reinforcement modifies or changes student behavior in positive ways
• Reinforcement can be applied to individual students, groups, or the whole class

Components of Skill of Reinforcement

• Verbal reinforcement: Using words of encouragement and praise
• Gesture/reinforcement: Using facial expressions and body language to show approval
• Proximity reinforcement: Displaying interest by getting closer to the student
• Contact reinforcement: Showing approval through physical contact
• Activity reinforcement: Using preferred activities as rewards
• Token reinforcement: Using tangible rewards like comments, sweets, money, awards, or progress charts

Guidelines for Reinforcement

• Warmth and Enthusiasm: Showing warmth towards students is important
• Variety of Usage: Varying the reinforcement methods to avoid repetition and maintain effectiveness
• Positive Reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement, like praise, instead of negative reinforcement, like criticism
• Students Understanding of Reinforcement: Making sure students understand the connection between their behavior and the reinforcement