Humor is one instructional tool that teachers can use in the classroom to increase its

effectiveness. There are many benefits associated with use of humor in the classroom, however
teachers need to first understand why and how humor works as an instructional tool. When teachers
use humor effectively in the classroom it can result in a number of benefits for teachers and students
alike. For example, when teachers use humor they may receive more positive evaluations and find
that students are more willing to participate in their classes. Additionally, when students take course
from teachers who use humor, they may become more motivated to do well in the class. While there
are a number of benefits that teachers derive from using humour in the classroom, the most
significant reason to study teacher humor is to better understand its relationship to student learning.
A number of studies have identified a positive relationship between the teachers use of humour and
student learning.
Garner cites numerous studies that show the positive effects of using humor in the
classroom. In one of his studies, he highlighted that humor is a powerful teaching tool that can
create a positive emotional and social environment in which students can lower their defenses and
focus more on what is being presented. It can initiate and sustain student interest as well as
improve students divergent thinking and memory of the topic presented.
One theoretical explanation for the humor-learning relationship is based on the attentiongaining and holding power of humor. The theory holds that, similar to teacher immediacy, humor is
arousing, which is related to memory, which in turn is related to learning outcomes. Teacher use of
humor may also serve as a powerful means of gaining liking and establishing rapport with students.
If teachers use humor in the classroom they are often doing so to reduce tension, to facilitate selfdisclosure, to relieve embarrassment, to save face, to disarm others, to alleviate boredom, to gain
favour through self-enchancement, to convey good will, or to accomplish some other prosocial goal.
Humor is indeed a powerful force. It can encourage an atmosphere of openness, develop
students divergent thinking, improve their retention of the presented materials, and garner respect
for the teacher. But like most things in life, it needs to be used in moderation. Too much humor can
result in a loss of respect and inappropriate jokes or jokes at the students expense can create a
hostile classroom environment. It is important to note that not all teachers should be encouraged to
immediately jump on the humour bandwagon. Laughter isnt just the best medicine, its a valuable
teaching tool as well.