Difference Between Teaching Methods and Teaching Techniques for Parents

Many homeschooling parents and microschool educators struggle to decide how to structure daily lessons. One common source of confusion is understanding the difference between teaching methods and teaching techniques, and how each shapes the learning experience.

Teaching methods describe the overall approach used to guide learning, while teaching techniques are the specific activities used during lessons. Both work together to help children understand concepts, stay engaged, and develop critical thinking skills.

When parents understand how methods and techniques complement each other, planning lessons becomes much easier. To start, it helps to clearly understand what teaching methods are.

In a nutshell

• Teaching methods are the overall instructional approaches that guide how learning is structured in a classroom or microschool.

• Teaching techniques are the specific classroom actions teachers use during lessons to deliver content and engage students.

• Methods provide the framework for instruction, while techniques help implement that framework during daily teaching.

• Effective educators combine multiple techniques within a chosen method to support different learning styles and lesson goals.

• Programs like The School House Anywhere (TSHA) help educators apply these strategies through structured curriculum and hands-on learning models.

What are Teaching Methods?

Teaching methods are the overall strategies or approaches you use to guide your instruction. They're the big picture plan for how you'll deliver information and help students learn.

Some examples of teaching methods include direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, and project-based learning. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. The best method to use will depend on the specific learning objectives, the students' needs, and the teacher's preferences.

Characteristics of Teaching Methods

• Broad strategies: Teaching methods are broad strategies that encompass your overall approach to teaching. They're not specific activities or techniques but rather the guiding principles that shape your teaching.

It helps you decide whether you want your classroom to be more traditional or more student-centered.

• Overarching framework: They provide a framework for your teaching, helping you to organize your lessons and activities in a way that makes sense. This helps you create a clear and consistent learning experience for your students.

• Focus on the "how" of teaching: Teaching methods focus on how you teach rather than what you teach. They're about the way you deliver information, interact with students, and create a learning environment. This could include things like whether you prefer to lecture or have students work in groups.

  
  

Examples of Teaching Methods

• Teacher-centered methods: In these methods, the teacher is the main source of information. The teacher is like the conductor of an orchestra, leading the learning and providing students with the knowledge they need. Examples include:

  • Direct instruction: Teachers explain concepts through lectures, demonstrations, and guided practice.

  • Lecture: The teacher presents information while students listen and take notes.

• Student-centered methods: Student-centered approaches encourage learners to actively participate in the learning process.

  • Inquiry-based learning: Students explore questions and discover answers through investigation and research.

  • Cooperative learning: Students work in small groups to solve problems and complete tasks together.

• Active learning methods: These methods get students actively involved in the learning process. They don't just sit and listen; they do things! Examples include:

  • Hands-on activities: Students learn by doing, such as through experiments, projects, and simulations. This approach can make learning more interactive and unforgettable.

• Technology-enhanced methods: These methods use technology to support and enhance learning. Technology is a valuable learning tool, offering students fresh and engaging ways to access information and resources. Examples include:

  • Online learning platforms: Courses, videos, and digital materials that allow students to access learning resources flexibly.

  • Simulations and virtual reality: Digital tools, simulations, or online platforms used to support instruction. This can bring learning to life and make it more engaging.

By understanding the different types of teaching methods and their characteristics, you can choose the approaches that best fit your teaching style.

While teaching methods provide a broad approach, teaching techniques are the specific tools and activities that bring those methods to life.

What are Teaching Techniques?

Teaching techniques are the specific activities and actions you take to deliver instruction and engage students in the learning process. They are the tools you use within a broader teaching method to achieve specific learning objectives. Some examples include think-pair-share, brainstorming, and role-playing.

Characteristics of Teaching Techniques

• Narrow focus: Teaching techniques are more specific than teaching methods. They focus on particular activities or strategies that you can use to teach a specific concept or skill.

• Specific activities: They involve concrete actions and activities that you do in the classroom, such as asking questions, leading discussions, or giving assignments. They are the things you actually do with your students to help them learn.

• Focus on the "what" of teaching: Teaching techniques focus on what you do in the classroom rather than the overall approach you take. They are the specific actions you take to help students learn, like choosing to use flashcards to help students memorize vocabulary words.

Examples of Teaching Techniques

• Questioning techniques: These techniques help teachers ask effective questions that encourage participation and deeper thinking. Examples include:

  • Open-ended questions: Questions that require more than a simple yes or no answer, encouraging students to think critically and express their ideas. For example, instead of asking "Is the sky blue?" you might ask "Why is the sky blue?"

  • Socratic questioning: A method of questioning that guides students to discover answers for themselves through a series of thought-provoking questions. This helps students develop their critical thinking skills and learn to think for themselves.

Do you want to build a learning environment where students stay engaged and strengthen their critical thinking skills?

The School House Anywhere can help! We use the Socratic method, a powerful questioning technique that encourages students to think deeply, analyze information, and discover answers for themselves. This method encourages students to enjoy learning while building their ability to think independently.

Visit The School House Anywhere today to learn more about how we use the Socratic method. We also incorporate other engaging teaching strategies to create a dynamic and enriching learning environment.

• Discussion techniques: These techniques help you facilitate engaging and productive classroom discussions. They encourage students to exchange ideas and collaborate while maintaining a respectful and meaningful discussion. Examples include:

  • Think-pair-share: Students think about a question individually, then discuss it with a partner before sharing their ideas with the whole class. This allows students to process ideas and build confidence before sharing with the class.

  • Fishbowl debate: A small group of students have a debate while the rest of the class observes and analyzes their arguments. This can be a fun and engaging way to learn about different perspectives on an issue.

• Assessment techniques: These techniques help you assess student learning and understanding. They help you see how well students are grasping the material and identify any areas where they might need extra help. Examples include:

  • Quizzes and tests: Traditional methods for assessing student knowledge and understanding. These can be used to check for comprehension and mastery of specific concepts.

  • Projects: Allow students to demonstrate their learning through in-depth projects, such as research papers, presentations, or creative works. This gives students the opportunity to use their knowledge and skills in a more engaging and meaningful way.

  • Portfolios: Collections of student work that showcase their learning and progress over time. This can be a helpful way for students to reflect on their learning and for teachers to see their growth over time.

• Classroom management techniques: These techniques help you create a positive and productive learning environment. They help you create a classroom where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to learn. Examples include:

  • Positive reinforcement: Encouraging positive behavior through recognition and incentives. This could involve things like verbal praise, stickers, or small prizes.

  • Clear expectations: Establishing clear behavior expectations and consistently enforcing consequences when needed. This helps students understand what is expected of them and creates a more structured learning environment.

Understanding the legal requirements for microschools is just as important as choosing the right teaching methods. To learn more about the key regulations and considerations, check out Microschools: Legal Considerations and Requirements You Must Know.

Quick Comparison:

Aspect	Teaching Methods	Teaching Techniques
Definition	Overall instructional approach used to guide learning	Specific classroom activities used during instruction
Scope	Broad teaching strategy	Narrow classroom action
Purpose	Provides the structure for teaching	Helps implement the chosen method
Focus	How teaching is organized	What teachers do during lessons
Example	Inquiry-based learning	Think-pair-share

Teaching methods and techniques aren’t separate concepts, they complement each other. By using the right combination, educators can create engaging and effective learning experiences.

How Teaching Methods and Techniques Work Together

Teaching methods and techniques are closely connected parts of instruction. Methods provide the overall approach, while techniques are the specific actions used during lessons.

1. Methods as the Foundation

The teaching method provides the overall framework for instruction and shapes the learning environment in the classroom.

For example, if you choose a student-centered method like inquiry-based learning, your classroom will likely be more interactive and exploratory. Students will take the lead in their learning.

2. Techniques as the Building Blocks

Within that chosen method, you'll use a variety of teaching techniques to deliver specific lessons and activities. The techniques are the specific tools you use to engage students, present information, and assess learning.

For example, within an inquiry-based learning approach, you might use questioning techniques to guide students' exploration. Discussion techniques can help them share their ideas, while project-based learning techniques allow them to apply their knowledge.

3. Harmony Between Methods and Techniques

The key is to choose techniques that align with your chosen teaching method and your learning objectives. For example, if you're using a direct instruction method, you might use techniques like lecturing, demonstrating, and providing clear explanations.

If you're using a project-based learning method, you might use techniques like brainstorming, group work, and presentations.

4. Flexibility and Adaptation

It's also important to be flexible and adapt your techniques as needed. Sometimes, a particular technique might not be working well with a certain group of students or for a particular lesson.

In those cases, don't be afraid to try something different! You can also mix and match techniques from different methods to create a unique and engaging learning experience for your students.

Want to create a school that's truly different and inspiring?

The School House Anywhere can help! We'll guide you every step of the way in building a unique and engaging learning environment for your students.

Here's what we offer:

• A well-designed curriculum: Our American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is packed with interesting lessons and activities that will get your students excited about learning.

• Support and guidance: We offer training, resources, and a supportive community to help you succeed.

• Flexibility: You can choose to run your school for a full day or a half day, depending on what works best for your community.

• Parent communication: We provide tools and resources to help you keep parents informed and involved in their child's education.

Ready to transform education in your community? Visit The School House Anywhere today, and let's build something amazing together!

With so many options available, selecting the right methods and techniques can feel overwhelming.

How to Choose the Right Methods and Techniques

Selecting effective teaching methods and techniques is key to building a strong learning environment in your microschool. With so many options to consider, finding the best fit for your students and curriculum can be a challenge.

So, how can you make informed decisions about the best teaching methods and techniques for your microschool?

Factors to Consider

1. Learning Objectives: What do you want your students to learn? Different teaching methods and techniques are better suited for different learning objectives.

For example, if you want your students to memorize facts, direct instruction with drills and practice might be effective. But if you want them to develop critical thinking skills, you might choose inquiry-based learning with open-ended discussions and debates.

2. Student Needs: Every student is unique, and they all learn in different ways. Consider the different learning styles, interests, and needs of your students when choosing your methods and techniques. Some students might learn best through hands-on activities, while others might prefer visual aids or group discussions.

3. Teacher Strengths: What are your strengths as a teacher? What teaching methods and techniques are you most comfortable and confident with? Choose approaches that play to your strengths and allow you to create a learning environment where you and your students can thrive.

4. Subject Matter: The subject you're teaching can also influence your choice of methods and techniques. Some subjects, like math, might lend themselves well to direct instruction and practice. Others, like social studies, might be better suited for project-based learning or discussions.

5. Available Resources: Consider the resources you have available, such as technology, materials, and time. Some teaching methods and techniques require more resources than others. For example, if you have limited access to technology, you might choose methods that don't rely heavily on computers or the internet.

Tips for Choosing

1. Align techniques with your chosen method: Make sure the techniques you choose fit well with your overall teaching method. For example, if you're using a student-centered approach, you'll want to choose techniques that encourage student participation and collaboration.

2. Use a variety of techniques: Keep learning engaging by using a variety of techniques. This will help prevent boredom and cater to different learning styles. You might use a mix of questioning techniques, discussion techniques, games, and hands-on activities to keep students interested and motivated.

3. Be flexible and adapt: Be willing to adjust your approach as needed. If a particular method or technique isn't working, try something different. You can also adapt your approach based on student feedback and your own observations.

By carefully considering these factors and being willing to experiment, you can find the teaching methods and techniques that work best for you and your students.

If you're ready to take the next step in creating a microschool, it's important to have a clear plan in place. Check out How to Establish and Design Your Own Microschool: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for practical tips on getting started.

Ready to Apply Teaching Methods and Techniques in Your Microschool? 

Teaching methods provide the overall structure for instruction, while teaching techniques are the specific actions used during lessons. Understanding the difference helps educators plan clearer lessons and create engaging learning environments. When both are aligned, students stay involved and grasp concepts more effectively.

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) helps homeschooling parents and microschool educators apply these ideas through its American Emergent Curriculum (AEC). 

The program combines inquiry-based learning, structured sessions, and hands-on activities to support meaningful learning experiences. TSHA also provides practical tools that help educators organize lessons and track student progress.

What TSHA Offers

• American Emergent Curriculum (AEC): A hands-on curriculum designed for inquiry-based learning

• Structured 6-week sessions: Clear teaching frameworks that help educators organize lessons

• Printable materials and worksheets: Ready-to-use resources for daily instruction

• Progress and portfolio tools: Track student development and learning outcomes

• Live educator support and community: Guidance and collaboration with other educators

Join The School House Anywhere Today and explore a practical way to build engaging learning environments.Start creating meaningful learning experiences for your homeschool or microschool community.

FAQs

1. Why do educators often confuse teaching methods and teaching techniques?

Teaching methods and techniques are closely connected, which makes them easy to confuse. Methods describe the overall instructional approach, while techniques are the specific actions used during lessons. Since both appear together in classroom practice, the distinction can sometimes be overlooked.

2. Can the same teaching technique be used across different teaching methods?

Yes, a single teaching technique can work within multiple teaching methods. For example, questioning or group discussions can be used in inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, or even direct instruction. The technique stays the same, but the overall teaching method changes the context.

3. How do teaching techniques influence student engagement?

Teaching techniques directly affect how students participate during lessons. Interactive techniques such as think-pair-share, debates, or hands-on activities encourage students to actively process ideas rather than passively receive information. This often improves attention and understanding.

4. Do experienced teachers change their teaching techniques often?

Many experienced educators adjust their techniques depending on the lesson, subject, and student needs. While the overall teaching method may remain consistent, teachers often vary techniques to maintain engagement and support different learning styles.

5. How can educators evaluate whether their teaching techniques are effective?

Teachers often review student participation, understanding, and assessment results to evaluate techniques. Classroom observations, student feedback, and performance on assignments can also provide insights into whether a particular technique supports learning effectively.