The Interactive Lecture: Nature or Nurture?

Lecturing is a wide spread teaching approach used in many university settings. As a didactic technique aimed at transmitting information, lecturing is, by definition, a receptive-oriented method of presenting content and offering explanations. The effectiveness of lectures has often been subject to debate; however, when delivered properly, lectures can be effective. The issue discussed in the present paper is aligned with earlier concerns regarding ways of transforming lectures into more engaging and creative classes. In the current educational context, typified by a high degree of complexity, participative communication, and great dynamism, making lectures interactive and more energetic does, indeed, become a practical and a timely endeavour. The paper looks at ways of implementing effective interactive lecturing strategies, analyses the advantages of this approach and proposes practical activities to improve lectures in order to transform a traditionally passive learning experience in an enriching and stimulating educational environment for educators and students alike.