AP Daily Videos in the AP Class: Supplement or Central Resource?

Would a competent AP teacher rely on AP Daily videos as their primary resource for teaching the class? This discussion will delve into the role of AP Daily videos, the benefits and limitations of their use, and why a comprehensive teaching approach involving diverse instructional methods and supplementary resources is more effective.

Introduction to AP Daily Videos

AP Daily videos, provided by College Board, are a valuable resource that can aid in teaching AP courses. However, many competent AP teachers do not rely solely on these videos to meet the needs of their students. This article explores why a diverse range of teaching methods and resources are essential for a comprehensive learning experience.

Diverse Teaching Methods

A good teacher employs various instructional methods to cater to different learning styles. These methods include direct instruction, discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative projects. Such a holistic approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to engage with the material in a way that suits their learning preferences.

Curriculum Depth

AP courses often require in-depth exploration of topics that may not be fully covered in videos. Teachers enhance the curriculum with additional resources such as textbooks, primary sources, and current events. This comprehensive coverage helps students gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and prepares them for the rigors of the AP exam.

Assessment Preparation

Competent teachers focus on preparing students for the AP exam through practice tests, quizzes, and formative assessments. While AP Daily videos can provide useful content, they do not always cover all the test-taking strategies and techniques needed for success. Therefore, a balanced approach is crucial for ensuring that students are well-prepared for the exam.

Student Engagement

Engaging students through interactive activities and discussions can foster a deeper understanding of the material. Videos alone may not achieve this level of engagement, making it essential for teachers to incorporate hands-on and collaborative activities into their lessons. This interactive approach helps students retain information and apply it in practical scenarios.

Feedback and Support

Skilled teachers provide personalized feedback and support to students, helping them with areas of difficulty. This is a role that videos cannot fulfill as they do not offer personalized interaction or tailor-made solutions. Teachers must adapt their teaching based on the specific needs and dynamics of their class, addressing individual and small-group challenges effectively.

Flipped Classroom Example

I use AP Daily videos to flip my classroom, maximizing class time for interactive activities and support work. With only 45 minutes a day with my AB and BC kids, I need to make the most of the limited time. In the case of BC kids starting from the ground up with limits, videos serve as a valuable supplement to content delivery, freeing up class time for more engaging and personalized interactions.

Ultimately, the role of the teacher is to assess student knowledge, provide timely feedback, and offer support to those who struggle. This kind of personalized approach ensures that students not only learn but also develop critical skills that go beyond mere content delivery.

Conclusion

While AP Daily videos can be a helpful supplement, a competent AP teacher would utilize a range of resources and teaching strategies to ensure a well-rounded educational experience for their students. By combining diverse instructional methods and supplementary resources, teachers can create a more effective and engaging learning environment.

Final Thoughts

Teachers must consider the best use of resources to help students learn. AP Daily videos can be a significant asset, but they should not replace the critical role of personalized interaction and feedback. The combination of these elements ensures that students receive the support they need to excel in their AP courses.