Researchers studied more than 45 instructors who taught small lab classes. The instructors recorded audio from their classes, and the researchers identified when teachers used humor. Students in the same classes then answered surveys about whether they found their instructor funny.
The study showed that the researchers’ view of what was funny did not predict students’ feelings. Instead, each student’s own judgement mattered: students who thought their instructor was funny had more positive feelings about the course and fewer negative feelings.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies a topic to find factsResearchers, researchers’
- instructor — person who teaches a class or courseinstructors
- record — to make and save sounds or imagesrecorded
- identify — to find or show who or what something isidentified
- survey — a set of questions given to many peoplesurveys
- judgement — a personal opinion or decision about something
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think a funny teacher makes a class better? Why or why not?
- Have you ever had an instructor who used humor? How did you feel?
- Do you prefer a teacher who uses humor or one who is serious? Explain.
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