Do You want to know what works in Technology? Ask your students.

This article, by David Andreade, advocates the use of student evaluations and focus groups to discuss what does and does not work in the classroom. He purported that most research and educational programs are written by those who have spent little or no time in the actual classroom.
Gleaning what students say works for them in the classroom is a great and honest way to bring effective change as an educator.
Some of the student complaints talked about the overuse of powerpoint and a teacher trying to present too much text on a slide. I have found this to be true in my own education. As these students lamented, I too feel the need to try to copy all the text and then fail to hear what the teacher is saying in regards to the text. Whereas powerpoint certainly has its place as a visual presentation, often good class discussions and interactions can stimulate more learning and interest than a dry lesson.
I realize that the students the author garnered his information from were high school students. However, the need for interaction, respect, personal acknowledgment, and interaction remain the same for any age level. I agree that it is also very important for a teacher to be passionate about what they are teaching, as well as being well versed in the subject so that they do not lose the credibility or the interest of their students.
I agree that homework should be meaningful and aid in the learning process. When students feel overwhelmed they begin to feel hopeless and learning is hindered. Overall, from this article I am reminded to focus on the needs of my students and always strive to gauge what is working for them to give them the best education possible.