For fifteen years, the presenter has engaged college students in discussions and writing assignments that pertain to the outstanding characteristics of their most effective teachers--"effective" meaning that these teachers made the most significant impact on their lives. Based on those recurring themes, the conclusion is that effective teachers…

Part of a series offering focused, authoritative treatments of subjects of current interest to educators and other readers, this fastback focuses on the topic of humor, particularly its usefulness in instruction. The fastback asserts that humor can increase attention and retention across curricular areas, create a more positive school climate,…

The importance of including humor and playfulness in the classroom is emphasized. Children in such classrooms learn quickly, retain more, and have fewer problems than other children. (DG)

Reviews the literature for empirical support of the use of humor in classroom teaching. Concludes that the judicious use of humor by a teacher can facilitate student learning, and offers guidelines for its use. (FMW)