When you teach the same lesson repeatedly, it is easy to feel burnt out from the repetition. Try some or all of the following strategies to help keep the content and delivery fresh.
Research New Developments
Continual research of the topic will allow you to add new updated content and keep the material current. If you set up a Google Alert using key words about the subject, new web posted content will be emailed to you daily. Watch best seller lists for new books on your area of expertise.
Make Changes in Response to Participant Feedback
Review past evaluation forms to see if there are changes that you can implement to improve delivery or the learning environment. If you have not completed post course evaluations, design a form to collect feedback so that you can improve the course after each offering.
Try New Delivery Methods
Examine your teaching style to make sure you have addressed auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners. For example, if you have delivered the material primarily through lecture, try a more active learning style by introducing discussions, role play, games, simulations and case studies. Prizes for games can be as simple as a wrapped candy or as elaborate as a sponsor donated prize.
Change the Environment
Booking a new room or moving to a completely new location can also change the dynamics of the session. Moving to a space with more windows, more floor and table space or better seating can create a more positive environment for teaching and learning. If you can’t change the room, try changing the training room layout to optimize learning.
Bring in a Guest Speaker
Someone who is an expert in the field (or a panel of experts) can be a very interesting change to the curriculum delivery model that will give participants a new perspective and another resource for answers to their questions. It also allows an instructor to keep in touch with key industry representatives.
Introduce Technology
Using a Course Management Software (CMS) system to create online content that supports the classroom model can allow for more of a self paced approach especially if your students are at varying levels of skill and/or experience levels. Research to see if specialized software exists that can supplement the learning (e.g. computer game on the content area, industry standard software).
Keeping content fresh when you teach it regularly can be a real challenge. It is worth the effort to make changes in the delivery and the content if it helps prevent instructor burnout.
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