Randy Pausch Lecture

Instead of talking about his cancer and death during his last lecture, Randy Pausch talked about what he knew the most about, his life. From becoming an Imagineer at Disney to getting to experience zero gravity, he got all he could from life. As a professor, he was able to influence his students by setting an example. He always believed in his students' potential and recognized that he was preparing them for the future.
Throughout the lecture, Pausch constantly makes references to his teaching style and experience. He was determined to make the most of the time he had with his students and wanted them to succeed. When one of his classes at Carnegie Mellon did extremely well on a new project, Pausch wanted to give them all A's. One of his colleagues helped Pausch by advising him to tell his students that "they did really great, but I think you can do better." When Pausch heard this advice it made him realize that his students' potential did not need to be shortened but expanded upon.
One thing that was obvious of Randy Pausch's teaching style was that he wanted to learn and experience right along with his students. Several programs and projects Pausch created were just as new to Pausch and the rest of the faculty as they were to the students. As a teacher, it's important to show that you're just as interested and excited about the students' work as they are. Education always needs new ways to make it relevant to the learners.
My favorite aspect of Randy Pausch's teaching techniques was his determination. It was obvious that in his teaching career and non-professional life Pausch was determined to succeed and fulfill his goals. He passed this feeling on to his students. No matter what person or obstacle he might face, he learned how to overcome everything and provide the best opportunities for his students.