What works!? The 21st century educator whenever in front of his lesson plan should ask this question. How could such important ideas reach the minds of intended recipients, and linger there, at least until they could be of good use? What the educator can do is to make use of effective methods. This would require certain level of creativity, this would require a strategy. And these methods are the things we discuss in our class. We aim for effective teaching; we aim for liberation from the traditional dogma that has been prevalent in our education system. We go for the creative approach.
But what to do when many methods are available? Can an educator just select randomly? Is a lecture always applicable? Will a round table or demonstration be as good as discussion at any given situation? The answer is obvious; the learners should determine the method to be used. We cannot force a case study to those who do not possess prior knowledge of the topic. Learners cannot brainstorm over something they do not know about. Students should not be given long lectures when what we want them to learn is how to swim. The task of the educator then is to know what card to play for every particular game – to use the right method at the right situation. But it is also his task to know first all the cards, all the effective methods in teaching. Limited cards would mean limited option; and limited option would mean limited strategy. So we educators are accountable for two things here – we should know what works; and when to use it.
