Ludicrously boring lectures

In college I had a lecturer who gave ludicrously boring lectures. Making the classes abysmal. Every lecture without fail he would stand at the top of the class and drone on and on and on.

He never deviated.

Christmas, R&G week and the end of term had no affect on him whatsoever.

Nothing could not knock him off his boring stride.

Recently I wondered why he did that. He must’ve seen the dwindling attendance numbers or the boredom of those who showed up.

Why didn’t he try to liven things up with some class participation or even lighten the mood with a joke?

To take a stab at explaining this behaviour – I think he didn’t change because it was easier that way.

It’s risky to tell a joke.

Involving students means relinquishing control and runs the risk of going off topic or even worse … dead silence.

At the time I was disappointed but looking back I sympathise with him. Even the thought of a room full of eyes on me is disconcerting.

But to consider the alternative, a passionate fun teacher can make the world of difference.

I think charismatic presentation skills can make even the most boring subjects interesting.

How many careers have been determined by an effervescent teacher?

So this is where I see the two philosophies diverge.

If you want to run the least amount of risk and do the bare minimum you can but it’ll cost you student engagement.

If you want participation and interest you’ve got to take some risks.