Different Classes Yield Different Experiences

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Ashley Long '19

Sitting in different classes over the years I have discovered many differences and similarities regarding how certain teachers teach and their class dynamics, especially when it comes to comparing different subjects. To test this idea, I sat in on a 10th grade Modern World History class and a Marine Biology class.

In Mr. Nichols’ history class, the students were talking about battles within WW1. The dynamic of the class was Harkness-based. Mr. Nichols introduced the main focus of the class that day and from there, the students took over. They each helped lead the class and bring up questions and answers, with the help of Mr. Nichols from time to time.

In Mrs. Buford’s marine biology class, the topic on the given day was sponges. The class got into groups and the students interacted with one another about their previous night’s homework. They each received hands-on examples of different sponges to have a better understanding of these pieces of marine life.

The ultimate difference between the way the two classes were taught? Mr. Nicholas’ class was much more stationary  and discussion-based, whereas Mrs. Buford’s class was more physically active.

Image courtesy of Ashley Long ’19.