Practical guide for Academic Beginners

I've just been looking through
CJ Lucas and JW Murray (2002) New Faculty: A practical Guide for Academic Beginners. Palgrave

At first glance the book looks to be crammed full, margin to margin text. My first reaction was, "oh no another boring how to book which emulates the teacher talk lecture." However there are some gems in here so if you get the book out do take a closer look.

• Not sure what makes a good teacher? See p 43 - personal enthusiasm, clarity of discourse & presentation, preparedness and organisation, ability to stimulate and knowledge (Weimer)


• Need ways to make your class great? See p49 for 9 things you can do that will make a difference.


• Don't think you can do anything with the classroom? See p52 for ideas on how to arrange the chairs for a more student centre climate.


• Not sure what to put in your course outline? P57 has a great list of things students will want to know.


• Want your lecture to be more interactive? P64 has six ideas for activities you can use in a lecture.

And that's just one chapter :-)