In-Person Teaching Materials

Knowing what materials you may need, where they are located, and how to successfully use them is of vital importance in creating an optimal learning environment. Advance preparation is essential. You should be acquainted with everything you will be using in class well before the first day. The following is a brief overview of commonly used materials and how you can use them:

 

Notes/Script: It is important that you familiarize yourself with the script you will follow during class time as well as any notes that will be distributed. This will help to maintain a timeline as well as hold the attention of the class and maintain creative exchange. Familiarity with your own material may seem to be an obvious task, but it never hurts to take a second look and anticipate what questions members may ask.

 

OLLI at UConn’s policy on photocopy production for presenters: As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, we are reducing paper and ink usage across our programs. This aligns with the goals in UConn’s Sustainability Action Plan, which emphasizes reducing waste and promoting digital alternatives wherever possible.

Here are a few alternatives to consider:
  • Emailing PDFs of handouts or readings directly to students before class.
  • Using PowerPoint slides or other visual aids during your presentations.
  • Uploading materials to a shared online folder (send your documents to osher@uconn.edu and we will save them on the OLLI website in a secure area and then send the link to your students).

 

Teaching aids: If you plan to include any aids such as maps, diagrams, or other objects, please be aware of the setup time as well as any special considerations required during class time. Such aids should be readied prior to the start of class in order to maintain an effective timeline and reduce any unnecessary pauses. If you require any special assistance with the setup or use of teaching aids, please contact the OLLI staff for support.

 

Preparation and prior knowledge of your materials are a prime concern in the classroom. Training and support are available to you throughout the semester, but the OLLI program strongly recommends that you utilize this help before the first class.