I have to say I don't always do this but, when I start a class with a new group, I always ask them to introduce themselves to one another and tell us all a little something about themselves. I feel this creates a bond and can help them find shared interests.

Continuous assessment of student learning should occur throughout the course. I find it important to conduct a form of assessment at the conclusion of each class session. The reason for this is that if you are building on theory or a concept, your students must understand step A before moving onto step B, etc. If a student is uncertain about the previous steps, learning can be hindered.

I feel it is important that all students ask questions. For those students who may be afraid to ask questions during a lecture or activity for fear of feeling "stupid" I would use notecards and a Q&A box much like a suggestion box. The process though was mandatory for all students in the class. Each student had to submit a card at the end of the class period and each question would be reviewed at the next session. This served as a method of review and allowed for the individual who thought they had a stupid question to ask the question without fear of being made fun of.

The importance of incorporating all learning styles into the classroom is essential for student and instructor success. A successful instructor will fully engage their students with a variety of instructional methods. The development of learning styles can be enhanced by doing so. I think that it is as equally important to encourage students to explore new ways of learning.

I sometimes find it challenging sticking to a lesson plan. I've had several classes that I taught multiple times and sometimes a group of students catches on much faster than another. I focus on making sure the learning objectives are met at the end of the course but I have to admit I sometimes had to improvise with respect to the lesson plan.

I find that, although Active learning is most effective, I HAVE to lecture certain subjects because i just cant find a way to make an activity out of them. Any resources to find ideas for this situations ?

this is a super way to get students exposed to what they will encounter on the job. stidents enjoy this type of learning

Questioning in the classroom is a very important skill to have in order to become an effective classroom instructor. The objectives were well defined. The types of questions were explained and adequate examples were given. The incorporation of research studies added validity and substance to the course providing scientifically evidence based material. Information regarding wait time and bias that instructors sometime exhibit between good students and students that are less advanced was very enlightening and cause me to take more notice in my classroom questioning procedures. The tips provided in this course such as probing reinforcement & praise can be very beneficial and relevant when instructing the adult learner. Vernise Walker Dental Hygiene

The first day of class often creates nerves both for students and the instructor. As we have learned in the module, the first day of class, can set the tone for the rest of the course. Having some sort of game is important. This relaxes the students, provides some laughs and helps everyone get to know each other. I teach Introduction to Psychology. One of the things I do is have a discussion about what they think the course is about. Often many students do not understand why they have to take the course, but after this discussion they are able to better understand how they use the topic everday.

The benefit of developing ones own resource packet is that you can use current material but you have to be careful of copyrights. Create a checklist to give yourself time to cover all critical items.

When meeting the class for the first time an instructor needs to be prepared for class. The instructors confidence is half the battle.

Managing time before, during, and after class is a key part of preparation. Being prepared for class makes you more confident as a teacher and shows your students you care.

Truly being confident in ones leadership is a big role in success. I also learned to watch the way instructors dress, conduct themselves, speak, and manage their time.

When assigning group projects, it is important to assign individual work specifically designed to assess each student effectively,as well as eliminate any students taking credit for work done by another/other students in a group setting

I teach an electrical class and give students a copy of wiring diagrams. Throughout the class and after explanation I will then provide a scenario. Usually Then I will have a student walk the class and myself through the diagnostic process until find the fault.

Many students seem to get caught up in trying to write down/take notes on as much of what is said in a lecture as possible. I think they likely retain or understand less of the material that is presented because they are rushing to write. Does anyone have an opinion on giving students a basic printed synopsis of the lecture (which can also serve the instructor as bulk of the lesson plan)that has room for students to add comments, observations, etc... so that they can relax and listen better rather then just writing what they hear?

It is important to ask a variety of questions such as comprehensive open and closed questions so that students get a variety of learning

As an instructor you have to make sure you teach to accommodate every learning style within your classroom. All students do not learn the same. You have those that are auditory, kinesthetic and visual learners and if you do not teach to all learning styles you will leave some students behind.

When students walk into your class on the first day whether they are younger or older, they are nervous and have no idea what to expect. As the instructor it is your job to make them feel like your classroom is a safe environment for them to learn and they should feel comfortable enough to ask questions and be themselves as it will help them relax more

Over the years I have become a huge fan of engaged learning. I find that attendance improves when students aren't tied to a chair for lecture and retention of subject matter increases. I would suggest fine development of engaged teaching skills to all new instructors.