Sarah McDonald

I learned that showing a sense of enthusiasm is crucial to increase retention of the course material. I will use this information when I teach by reminding myself before class starts that I need to not only feel inwardly excited about the material but also make sure that my enthusiasm is shown outwardly. 

The most important thing I learned about in this module is that many adult learners could be starting over in a new career and may have mixed feelings about this. During instruction, I will try to connect their prior experience to their prospective career in order to promote confidence. 

The most important point I took away from this module was that the average adult attention span is 10-15 minutes. I will use this information in the future by trying to divide my instruction into 10-15 minute chunks. 

My first instinct was to allow students to sit where they please. However, after completing this module, I understand how assigned seats could help me to learn names, which can show the students that I care about them. 

The most important point that I took from this module was that giving students information is fine but letting them be active participants is a more effective and truly helping the student grow. Whenever possible I will try to guide the students rather than provide information. 

I particularly like the idea of using the time immediately before classtime to engage with the students. It is tempting to fine-tune your presentation and go over your notes one more time. However, that connection before class can affect students' opinion of the instructor much more than a slight improvement in the presentation. This module also emphasized the role of instructor as a motivator. I think being able to feel the inspiration as a group of students together and receiving the same motivational message can be very empowering. 

Safety should be taught explicitly and by example. For example, I plan to follow the dress code, which was developed with safety, infection control, and professionalism in mind. 

Having proper objectives can help a student to decrease or manage their anxious and prepare adequately. As an instructor, it can be tempting to assume the students know what level of competency they are expected to demonstrate. However, this can lead to unnecessary anxiety. I will strive to be clear in my expectations and objectives so that my students have the best chance of success and can prepare confidently. 

The content in this module reinforced the idea that active learning is more effective. This is something I, and I believe, most adults have experienced personally. I intend to use the content in this module by promoting an environment that is conducive to active learning. 

This module led me to consider my role to continue to inspire students and facilitate discussion and meaningful reflection about the reasoning behind what they are doing and to think about topics on many levels.