Demonstrate a technique or tool

I show students how to use a technique, process, technology or tool before asking them to try it themselves.

Think aloud through a problem

I make my reasoning visible while solving something, including my choices, uncertainty, false starts and changes of direction.

Ask students to explain why

I ask students to explain and justify their code, design, analysis, choice of technology, method or solution.

Connect theory to practice

I use real systems, applications, industry examples or professional experience to show students why concepts matter and where they are used.

Give students an open-ended problem

I give students a problem where there isn't one prescribed approach or single expected solution, requiring them to decide how to proceed.

Show what good looks like

I use examples of code, designs, models, reports or solutions to help students recognise quality and understand expected standards.

Coach students while they work

I move between students or groups, observe what they're doing and provide questions, hints or feedback that help them move forward.

Compare different solutions

I get students to examine alternative algorithms, designs, architectures, models or approaches and reason about their strengths, weaknesses and trade-offs.

Explain a difficult concept

I use explanations, diagrams, examples and analogies to help students understand difficult technical concepts.

Live code / build in front of students

I create code, a model, configuration, design or solution in front of students so they see it being constructed rather than only seeing the finished product.

Let students learn through a project

Students develop something substantial over time, making decisions, solving problems and responding to feedback while I increasingly act as adviser, critic and resource.

Debug with students

I investigate errors, unexpected behaviour or failures with students, making the debugging process itself part of the learning.

Get students learning from each other

I have students discuss problems, compare approaches, explain ideas and work towards solutions together.

Give students structured practice

I use exercises, labs or guided activities that progressively build students' skills, understanding and confidence.

Ask questions rather than give the answer

When students are stuck, I use questions and prompts to help them identify the problem, reconsider their thinking or determine the next step themselves.

Let students make technical decisions

I let students choose tools, technologies, architectures, methods or approaches and take responsibility for those choices.