The Art of Teaching with Humor: Crafting Laughter

The Art of Teaching with Humor is a book on humor for teachers that provides amusing scenarios and specific humor tools to boost student creativity, attention, engagement, and performance. It also serves as a guide for teacher educators, administrators, and professional development staff to consider how synthesizing joyful humor with instructional content and delivery safeguards teachers' emotional wellbeing and classroom performance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

After a challenging career spanning dodgy decades of teaching in high schools notorious for gang entanglements, students exhibiting problematic behavior, and apathetic administrators, followed by a stint in a middle school art room affectionately known as the snake pit, Teri Evans-Palmer embraced an adjunct position at a nearby university and enrolled in a doctoral program with a cheerful spirit. Her heart extends to teachers of all ages who participate in her humor sessions, sharing stories that would evoke a pounding heart within you. Undoubtedly, a teacher would inquire, "Where can I get your book?" The pages of this book are drawn from moments with Dr. Evans-Palmer's students when something funny sparked a remarkable learning experience. There were undoubtedly days when the author felt inclined to run into the woods, screaming, but the most cherished days were filled with tinkling moments enveloped in contagious laughter, days she would happily relive again. Humor has served as a valuable teaching resource, fostering a connection with students and providing a gentle landing when the weight of teaching becomes overwhelming.

The Art of Teaching with Humor is a valuable resource for teachers across the globe who recognize the importance of laughter in their journey to thrive and survive. Within its pages, you will find a treasure trove of amusing scenarios and specific humor tools that any teacher can employ to enhance student creativity, attention, engagement, and performance. Moreover, this book serves as a valuable guide for teacher educators, administrators, and professional development staff, as it delves into the synthesis of joyful humor with instructional content and delivery, safeguarding teachers' emotional well-being and enhancing classroom performance.

By incorporating humor into your teaching practice, you can create a positive and inclusive learning environment that fosters a love for learning and promotes student growth. Humor has the power to break down barriers, build rapport, and create a sense of camaraderie among students. It can also help alleviate stress and anxiety, making the teaching experience more enjoyable for both teachers and students.

In addition to its pedagogical benefits, humor can also enhance teacher performance. Studies have shown that teachers who use humor in their teaching are more effective in engaging students, promoting active learning, and improving student outcomes. Humor can help teachers convey complex concepts in a more accessible and memorable way, making the learning process more enjoyable and effective.

Moreover, humor can have a positive impact on the emotional well-being of teachers. Studies have shown that teachers who use humor in their teaching are less likely to experience burnout and stress. Humor can provide a much-needed break from the demands of the classroom, allowing teachers to recharge and refocus their energy. It can also help teachers build resilience, which is essential in the face of challenges and setbacks.

In conclusion, The Art of Teaching with Humor is a must-read for teachers who seek to enhance their teaching practice and create a positive learning environment. By incorporating humor into your teaching, you can boost student creativity, attention, engagement, and performance, while also safeguarding your emotional well-being and enhancing your classroom performance. So, why not add a little laughter to your teaching routine and see the positive impact it can have on your students and yourself?

Weight: 333g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433186578
Edition number: New ed