If a lesson plan needs to be modified mid-lesson, what should an instructor do?

Modifying a lesson plan mid-lesson requires responsiveness to the students’ needs, and assessing both student engagement and understanding is essential for effective teaching. By evaluating how well students are grasping the material, an instructor can identify whether the original plan is meeting its objectives or if adjustments are necessary. This practice not only helps in addressing varying levels of comprehension among students but also enhances engagement by ensuring that the instruction remains relevant and effective.

When an instructor chooses to assess student engagement and understanding, they can gather real-time feedback—through observations, questioning, or informal assessments—which leads to a more dynamic learning experience. This responsiveness fosters an adaptive learning environment, encouraging students to participate more actively and ensuring that learning goals are more likely to be achieved.

In contrast, sticking to the original plan regardless of student response can lead to disengagement, confusion, and wasted instructional time. Consulting with peers may be beneficial but doesn't provide immediate solutions during the lesson. Ending the lesson early prevents any further opportunity for learning and development. Therefore, adjusting instruction based on assessment during the lesson is the most effective approach.