Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/2866
Laughter research continues to prove that laughter leads to learning “Laughing contributes to good mind and body balance,” says Michael Lovorn, a humor researcher and education teacher from CSU Long Beach. “It makes students ready to learn and helps teachers rise above the assembly-line mentality. In an age of so-called failing schools, we should keep in mind that human beings have laughed longer than they’ve been tested, and that everybody appreciates being in an environment that is welcoming and conducive to putting smiles on their faces.” Stories by Sherry Posnick-Goodwin • Photos by Scott Buschman maRK RITTER Astronomy and chemistry teacher at Temecula Valley High School and Temecula Valley Educators Association member. HiS SHtick Lecturing in foreign accents. Standing on chairs on top of tables and jumping to show how energy levels increase and decrease in atoms via electrons. Dramatization of chemical reactions, such as what constitutes a solid, a liquid and a gas. “For a solid I stand there like a moron. As a liquid I start to loosen up. As a gas I run around the classroom and run into walls. In the old days, I’d injure myself weekly.” 16 California Educator | december 2008 • january 2009 BeSt Line “I’m in an article about humor? There are other funny teachers, too? I’m really not the only one? I’d like to thank the academy…” BeSt QUote from StUdent “My science teacher is insane,” says student Gabbi Pleasant. “But he makes it fun and interesting.” HUmor advice “Use humor to make a point or teach a concept. Keep in mind that this is a serious class and students have to pass it. Flavor your class with humor; don’t make your class a comedy routine.” >>> m a k e s