About me
Katie Yaeger
Activity
Discussion Comment
Myself and another instructor were chatting about some challenges when utilizing critical thinking in the classroom. We've found that when we implement critical thinking exercises in the classroom, the students have difficulty realizing that they are actually learning the material as well (they are so used too powerpoint / lecture style learning).
Ensuring that we review the achieved objectives at the end of each class can often help alleviate this issue.
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I have attempted to instill critical thinking in my students through using real life scenarios.. commercials, situational examples, etc. I'm interested in hearing methods that other instructors have utilized that seem to assist in developing students critical thinking skills.
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I've found that good motivation can also come from outside sources, such as guest speakers. Finding guest speakers in the occupations that the students want to be a part of in the future provides them with renewed perspective and excitement for the field.
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One of my career development classes requires the students to write two journals per week, to which I respond. I have found that although they always complain when they are told about the assignment at the beginning of class, they generally are excited to see my responses to them after I pass the journals back. I really think this is a great method to connect with each student, and to reinforce their feelings. Some students keep their journals about school, others delve into personal issues they they need to get off their chest. I'd encourage other instructors to consider this… >>>
Discussion Comment
I occasionally feel frustration due to the fact that I work full time, and instruct part time. Many of my students have needs, and I sometimes feel that I don't have the time in the day to attend to each student.
I'm very fortunate that my school encourages the participation of program directors when students have major issues, but there are times when students just need to talk about smaller issues in their lives. I'm interested to hear any suggestions from others who have similar frustrations.
Discussion Comment
I agree with the module's contention that exercise is a good way to deal with stress. Sometimes I make excuses and claim I don't have enough time to exercise, but ultimately, I end up more frustrated, stressed, and unhappy than if I had just exercised. More time is wasted feeling sorry for myself than anything. I use the P90X dvd's, and have found that even doing half the workout is a great stress reliever!
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Generally, I get stressed in regards to the number of tasks that need to be completed every day - the schedule is relentless! I plan to use some of the suggestions in regards to faster classroom preparation to assist in making more time every day!
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I currently teach three classes, and I don't have the benefit of having an office at the school. I've found that creating different sections within the bag I carry to school every day helps me stay organized, as well as keeping papers organized and grouped. This can be challenging, but it forces me to remain organized!
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I've found that including even simple things on my to do lists... "check email", etc. give me a sense of accomplishment. I then feel motivated to continue completing items and crossing them off.
Discussion Comment
Many of the students in my class complain about the school. I generally try to redirect them to a new topic (this is usually at the beginning, before class has started, or at the end of class). I feel like if I argue with them, it will simply make them more resolute in voicing their feelings about the school. Is this a correct approach to take, or should I do something else?
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