I learned that even though I already understood the main gamification concepts, this module showed me new and more intentional ways to implement them. I plan to apply these ideas by integrating clearer goals, simple tutorials, and small quests into my activities, and by using guilds or mini boss battles to increase engagement and motivation.

Some concepts I have learned about gamification that I can apply is the concept and guilds and badges. Guilds can motivate the students to work together and help each other learn and badges can inspire healthy competition among the guilds.

My best classes when I was in school was when the instructor had been there, done it kind of knowledge. When they loved what they were doing. When you can feel the passion in them and what is coming out of their mouth. You then get excited that you are in this class. Those types of classes I excelled in the best. I had the highest grade in classes with instructors that new their stuff!  

What I learned from this section is the words Intrinsic and Extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is when it comes naturally to you and Extrinsic motivation is when you it is alien or foreign to you. We all have those characteristics in us with many different subject matters and learning.

Listening to students is one of the most important skills I can use to teach. Understanding their needs and what they want to accomplish with their time in the classroom helps me to know how to present the information. Taking a few minutes to listen to their personal stories without getting caught up in drama, and being able to redirect back to a learning environment is somewhat an art. Doing so effectively helps the student to have confidence without making their story seem unusual or out of place, which, sometimes it is. 

Consistency is also key to a well-organized and high functioning learning space. Without fail, each day I post/write on board, the daily agenda and review it so the class understands what the content and targeted learning outcomes are for the session. Additionally, returning work expeditiously shows a tremendous respect for the student and their effort.

Remembering that to guide students to be able to think critically in order to make their own, measured decisions that they can apply to their education and personal lives is significant. I appreciated the clarity of stating there are different types of advising was useful.

Comment on Christopher Brown's post: Thank you for adding the element and the importance of "joy" in what we do!

When approached, I always make sure to turn my posture and face my student to offer the non-verbal cue that I am ready to listen and focus only on what they need to share.

When I decided to leave the private sector and entered the public service of teaching, I brought with me the belief that my students were like my clients/customers and I owed them the very best of me and my scholarship to guide and facilitate their educational journey. This belief has served all stakeholders well over three decades.