I learned that delivering course content effectively means keeping things clear, organized, and engaging so students can actually connect with the material. Practicing my delivery ahead of time (because practice makes perfect) and staying flexible so I can adjust based on how the class is responding.

Meeting the class for the first time is all about setting a comfortable tone, being genuine, and showing students they’re in a place where they can learn and be themselves. Being friendly, open, and ready to make that first day feel welcoming instead of intimidating.

I learned that effective planning and preparation create smoother lessons, clearer objectives, and a more engaging learning experience for students. I plan to apply this by being as overly prepared as possible so my classes run efficiently and I can adapt confidently to whatever surprises come up.

Asking the right questions as an instructor can be a valuable learning tool, both to assess student comprehension and to expand on concepts. Using active listening when students are asking questions or giving answers shows respect and ensures that you pay full attention and don't interrupt them. It is important to reward or praise participation in class, whether or not someone has the exact right answer.

Bloom’s Taxonomy states one's psychomotor, cognitive, and affective should be addressed when assessing a competency. It is helpful to break down the objectives on the lab or shop environment into skill categories based on foundational, technical and professional. 

We all have a dominant learning style yet often mix styles. When developing instruction, paying attention to varying learning styles helps to meet the needs of all students. Teaching in the lab environment can allow the instructor to identify quickly some of their students' learning styles. As an instructor, this is a great opportunity to learn your students to better assist them as time goes on shoudl they encounter problems with understand a technique in lab. 

A competency-based curriculum is important to find a balance between learning the competency and the development of the whole person. A skilled worker needs to have the ability to problem solve, critically think, and demonstrate interpersonal skills.

For me, this is particular relevant as accidents can happen in the work environment; therefore, workers need to be able to think, assess,  and come up with a solution quickly as some situation can be life threatening. 

I’ve learned that developing as an instructor means creating a supportive, clear, and engaging learning environment where students feel motivated to participate. I plan to apply this by becoming the kind of teacher students want to come to, approachable, consistent, and committed to their success.

Students that feel empowered, enticed, confident will tend to lean into learning. My role is to ensure the teaching provides the environment

Engaging and being receptive to students on an individualist basis can meet Maslow's Hierarchy of needs for the student, build their confidence, feel seen and lead to success