What characterizes a formal lecture?

A formal lecture is primarily characterized by its objective to convey information to a group of students in a structured format. This method is typically used when the instructor wishes to present specific content in a clear and organized manner, often covering topics that require detailed explanations or are foundational to the subject being taught.

The primary focus of a formal lecture is to educate and inform students about certain concepts, theories, or practices within a given discipline, relying heavily on the instructor's expertise. While techniques such as active participation, assessing understanding, and encouraging questions can enhance the learning experience, they are not defining features of a formal lecture. Instead, these aspects may be more aligned with interactive teaching methods or different formats of instruction that foster engagement and dialogue, rather than the lecture format itself.