In almost all settings there are times when it is okay to joke around and there are times when it isn’t and the classroom is no different. Depending on the type of humor, it’s timing, it’s subject, and the present audience there are varying levels of effectiveness. Understanding what is appropriate to joke about and how to go about implementing such humor is crucial to producing the desired effect.

 

In her research regarding interpersonal communications Bekelja Wanzer, EdD, found that overly comedic teachers are seen as ineffective instructors whereas those who use appropriate and relevant humor are are viewed as being better educators. Clearly it is important to understand that there is such thing as too much. Appreciating that being overly humorous can be off putting and distracting is critical when using humor in the classroom. Ensuring that there is a balance between the jokes and the serious content keeps the students engaged but prevents it from diverting attention.

 

Another important consideration to take into account when blending humor with course content is what is appropriate to joke about. An article published by the American Psychological Association cites that humorous content that pertains to the coursework and is seamlessly integrated into the flow of the lecture can improve the recall of information and enhance understanding. Contrary to this jokes that are rude, sarcastic, overly intellectual or just plain not funny, can disengage the students causing them to lose focus. It can even damage the students opinion of the teacher making it harder for the instructor to teach them. Having an understanding for what works with a specific class is what will determine how well the humor works for those students. Additionally being able to gauge the student response and knowing how to adapt to those responses dictates how effective the humor will be.

 

Lastly, having an appreciation for when humor is appropriate is essential to the impact it will have. Relevant humorous examples that punctuate important points have been shown to be beneficial. But when the humor interrupts the continuity of the lesson it can break the students focus and cause them to miss what follows it.

 

Understanding the when, what, and how much with respect to humor is what distinguishes between it being valuable rather than detrimental.