Laughing to Learn: Exploring Classroom Humour with Dr. Kim Lenters and Jason Avramenko

In this episode of The Podclass, host Elizabeth Tingle delves into the role of humor in the classroom with Dr. Kim Lenters, Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Language and Literacy Education at the University of Calgary, and teacher Jason Avramenko. They explore how humor can boost student learning and enhance teacher well-being. The discussion covers the benefits of humor, including improved retention and engagement, and offers practical strategies for integrating humor into teaching. Jason emphasizes the importance of thoughtfully planning humor and understanding student dynamics, while Dr. Lenters discusses how improvisation can create a playful and engaging learning environment. They also highlight the potential challenges of humor in the classroom, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and appropriate use.

Resources:

Lenters, K., & Smith, C. (2018). Assembling improv and collaborative story building in language arts class. The Reading Teacher, 72(2), 179–189. https://doi.org/10.1002/trtr.1689

Lenters, K. (2018). Comedy in the classroom? How improv can promote literacy. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/comedy-in-the-classroom-how-improv-can-promote-literacy-89900

The Awkward Yeti by Nick Seluk: The Awkward Yeti 

The Far Side by Gary Larson: The Far Side Comic Strip by Gary Larson - Official Website | TheFarSide.com

Fey, Tina. Bossypants. Reagan Arthur Books/Little, Brown and Company, 2011.

TED. "Tina Fey’s Rules of Improvisation Will Change Your Life | TED." YouTube, 6 Jan. 2016, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmafmRIeet0.

Celik, B., & Gündoğdu, K. (2016). The effect of using humor and concept cartoons in high school ICT lesson on students’ achievement, retention, attitude and anxiety. Computers & Education, 103, 144-157. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2016.10.008