This section helped me understand how important it is to get students involved in their own education from the very beginning. I hope to incorporate setting expectations clearly from the beginning. I also like the idea of starting with a teamwork activity to show students the benefit of collaboration.

      Sensitivity to the lived experiences of underrepresented students is vital in establishing a successful learning environment. A successful educator must teach at the learner's level of understanding. Adult learners do not all come to us at the same level or academic proficiency.

Having the expectation that everyone will be like you. 

it's important to set the expectations from the first day of class, getting to know them and them you. Expectations will be easier to managed if set on early in the course. 

I think this was a good course. One thing I noticed though was the suggestions about what to do about tardiness which is actually not an option at my school. I also thought it was interesting it suggested that we ask the students to be a part of creating policies for the school. I feel like this is a bad idea in some regard, or is almost more of a game to make it seem that we will take their opinions into consideration. I know the students complain a lot about the rules as the school where I work and the only way to let them think they have a voice in the matter would be to allow them to break the rules. I think it's a bit difficult to always make the students feel empowered while at the same time, holding them to standards they do not agree with or believe are reasonable. It's been really difficult in that regard. 

I learned the 4 types of classroom management and what they imply for the class overall. Very interesting material.

I like to do ice breakers with my students and they usually enjoy them as well. I have the students put themselves in the alphabetical order. This requires them to introduce themselves to their peers. It also allows me to stand back and observe the students' personalities. I can usually pick out the leaders and the students who are a little more timid than the others. I do like the idea about setting up a calendar with due dates. I think this would be extremely helpful for both me and my students. Clear expectations on due dates and late work has always been a priority for me and my colleagues. We use the same policy accross the board in our academy. That way students already know what to expect.

It is okay to make mistakes as long as it is not consistently.  Take notes on mistakes and how you solved them so you can improve yourself the next time.

Everyone is human, listen to the issue, offer a solution, and have them write down their concerns to get a better understanding. You may need to add a third party to the situation if needed.  Stay calm and ensure the student that you are there to help them learn and succeed.

There will be these types of students in every class. However, there are great ways to suggest improvements for inattentive students or ready to quit students. Make sure all students feel included!