How to run a course in higher education?

Are you preparing to give your first lecture in higher education or to give your first presentation at university? Whether you are starting out as a trainer or want to improve your teaching , running a course in higher education is an art that is always good to perfect.

In this article, Tenors gives you the keys to properly prepare yourself to speak in front of students, capture and above all maintain their attention throughout your speech!

1. Prepare your higher education course well

Our first tip for running a course in higher education is simply not to arrive with your hands in your pockets. In fact, we have already written a guide to help you create a course or intervention. Do not hesitate to consult it to go into a little more detail.

In general, however, remember that preparing your lecture or practical work well is the sine qua none condition for its success. The more familiar you are with the content of your talk, your teaching materials, or even the layout of the classroom, the more comfortable you will be with your students.

Also, don’t hesitate to have a backup plan. Let’s imagine that the rearview mirror no longer works, or simply that there aren’t enough of you to carry out such an exercise. Having alternative material that can easily change course themes/methodologies will allow you to keep face… And not waste an hour of your class .

2. Break the ice

If this is your first intervention in higher education, or the first lesson you give to a group of students, it is advisable to establish a positive and interactive dynamic with your class  from the start .

For example, consider introducing yourself, including your own training as well as the professional experience that led you to become a trainer in higher education. It is also advisable to present the objectives of your course , the main themes that you will cover, etc.

Also take the time to get to know your students , especially if you are speaking with a small group of students. This is a good way to show that you are interested in them , but also to discuss why they chose this course and what they expect from it.

Creating an interactive dynamic with your students will also create a spirit of promotion. Your students will be more comfortable intervening in class, asking you questions and asking for help, etc. You will also limit the risk of abandonment.

3. Quickly capture students’ attention

Once the presentations have been made and you are off to a good start, it is also important to ritualize the start of your courses or your intervention in higher education

Always start with content that will hook students , intrigue them, and make them want to learn more. This could be a real-life example or an anecdote from your own experience. The idea is to make their mouths water while sharing a brief overview of what your course will cover.

You can also share a quick outline of the points you will cover so that your students feel like they are following a framework and making concrete progress in their understanding of a topic. If the format lends itself to it, you can also allow a few minutes before getting to the heart of the subject to return to the previous intervention and answer any questions your students might have.

4. Maximize interactions

The time when higher education instructors gave a lecture without ever letting their students speak is over. Today’s students are looking for more interaction with their teachers. They do not memorize new knowledge but like to think about it, share their ideas and come up with new thoughts on their own.

If your intervention in higher education lends itself to it, even try to draw on the experiences of your students. Establishments are specifically looking for experts from the world of work for their practical experience and very concrete teaching. This more interactive and horizontal approach to teaching will allow you to involve your students even more, and therefore better retain their attention.

5. Vary learning methods and supports

Varying the activities and materials you use to lead a higher education course is another very important tip for maintaining the concentration and participation of your students. Try to be as dynamic as possible, in your gestures but also in your voice.

Also use visual supports (such as slides, a video, a speaker’s testimony) so that your course is not too monotonous. And once again, don’t hesitate to involve your students to boost their engagement. You can therefore vary between the lecture part and practical exercises, group projects or Questions & Answers which will make your interventions more fluid and lively.