Anthony Rhodes Nalls

Discussion Post: Reflection on Pedagogy and Instructional Practice

This module has deepened my understanding of pedagogy and its powerful influence on learning. Through reflection, I began to see how the teaching styles of my past instructors have shaped the kind of instructor I am today. Some were inspiring and engaging, while others revealed approaches I now recognize as less effective. This reflection helped me identify both strengths and areas for growth in my own teaching.

One of the most impactful parts of this module was the focus on classroom preparation and the mindset of an instructor. These questions encouraged me… >>>

Reflecting on This Module: Growth as an Instructor

One of the most impactful lessons I’ve taken from this module is that being an effective and professional instructor starts well before stepping into the classroom—and it certainly doesn’t end when the class is over. The mindset, preparation, and presence an instructor brings are foundational to creating a positive and productive learning environment.

I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how technical expertise, professional conduct, and personal competencies all work together to build rapport with students. These elements are not just about delivering content—they’re about modeling appropriate behavior, managing the classroom effectively, and… >>>

While I do not create my lesson plans from scratch, I recognize that our objectives and standards are determined by our licensing authority and accrediting bodies. However, this lesson has reinforced the critical role I play as an instructor in ensuring that these expectations are met while also making the material engaging and relevant for my students.

I now see the importance of crafting objectives that are positive, specific, and realistic, providing a strong foundation for effective teaching. Moving forward, I plan to evaluate my lesson plan objectives using Bloom’s Taxonomy and the A-B-C-D model, which will help ensure clarity… >>>

Comment on Rudy Gonzales's post: I love this! 

I have gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of developing a rationale for a lesson plan, rather than relying solely on objectives. Establishing a clear rationale ensures that lessons are purposeful, effectively aligned with student needs, and support meaningful learning outcomes.

Additionally, I now better understand the value of documenting lesson plans for evaluation and future refinement. While I had already begun incorporating this practice, I now recognize its significance in improving instructional delivery and overall lesson effectiveness. By maintaining thorough documentation, educators can assess and enhance their approaches, leading to more impactful learning experiences.

This insight has reinforced… >>>

I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of assessing students' prior knowledge before introducing new material. This approach allows educators to tailor instruction effectively, ensuring that students at varying levels of experience and cognitive ability receive the support they need.

I also explored various techniques for gauging student understanding, such as pre-assessments, interactive discussions, and formative evaluations. Implementing these strategies enhances engagement and promotes meaningful learning experiences. Additionally, I learned how to adapt instruction to accommodate different cognitive levels, making lessons more accessible and impactful for all learners.

Understanding and applying these principles will strengthen my ability to… >>>

I gained valuable, actionable techniques to address common classroom challenges, including student disengagement, disruptions, and disrespect. It was reassuring to realize that I had already been implementing some of these strategies in my approach to classroom management. Additionally, I now have a deeper understanding of the reasoning behind effective improvisation, allowing me to respond to unexpected issues while maintaining students' dignity. These insights will help me create a more supportive and structured learning environment where students feel respected and motivated to engage.

"I learned about the four different styles of classroom management and reflected on my own approach. During my first year of teaching, I adopted a controller style, which led to more challenges than I had anticipated. Over time, I found myself drifting toward apathy, but changes at work reignited my passion for teaching. Seeing my students succeed after their hard work and sacrifice reminded me why I love this profession. Now, I embrace the role of a guide, actively seeking ways to engage with my students while maintaining a professional yet friendly rapport."

This module has reinforced the vital role of soft skills in professional success, particularly in education. Through my experiences transitioning from nursing to instruction, I have realized that technical expertise alone is not enough—emotional intelligence, communication, teamwork, and leadership shape the effectiveness of an educator.

I now have a deeper appreciation for how emotional intelligence influences interpersonal communication, allowing for better relationship management and conflict resolution. Understanding how to adjust my communication—both verbal and nonverbal—has given me valuable tools to foster a supportive learning environment and navigate workplace challenges. Leadership, too, plays an integral role in guiding students and colleagues… >>>

Through this module, I have deepened my understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and its direct impact on an instructor’s effectiveness. While interpersonal skills are essential in fostering strong relationships with students and colleagues, EQ plays a particularly vital role in managing classroom dynamics and professional interactions. As a nurse, EQ is crucial for patient care, directly influencing bedside manner. However, transitioning into an instructional role requires applying these skills in new and often unexpected ways.

Additionally, I have learned how EQ relates to soft skills and emotional concerns, while IQ is more connected to hard skills and… >>>