At 55, I’ve recently returned to university (undergraduate BScN) after graduating from my second undergraduate degree in 1990.
Many lectures now consist of someone simply reading what is on a PowerPoint presentation, and expanding on the points with whatever comes into their head. In the past, what I valued was the lecturer sharing what they knew about the topic from their own research or real world experience. To have someone reiterate what I’ve already read in the text is a waste of my time.
My vote would be to get rid of PowerPoint presentations. That would force lecturers to prepare to lecture rather than provide McEducation.
December 2nd, 2009 at 11:05PM
I’m beginning to get sick of PowerPoint bashing. Bash the incompetent buffoons who read from the screen. I certainly do. But PowerPoint is a tool only: it is not determinative.
December 2nd, 2009 at 11:10PM
I don’t agree it’s only a tool, Michael. I think it’s in such broad, uncritical use that it’s become, and will remain, a serious problem. I don’t keep bashing it. Students all over the world do, and I report the bashing.