I teach a class that is primarily abstract material, but it is also only a 2 credit gen ed course. I feel that paper writing is a little much for this class, but am having difficult time creating other ways of assessing them. Any suggestions?

How do you get over the fear of walking in your class the first day and start teaching. I am very nervous about it, I know I can do it and will get use to it, but the first day is what scares me. Ive been a dental assistant for 25 years and now am going into teaching dental. Right now I am in the lab which is easy and I enjoy, its the classroom setting I haven't done yet. The thought of my first day and keeping the whole class's attention makes me nervous. Any suggestions to overcome my fear? thanks

Fun in classroom is essential. My students have a hard time getting in to class games. Are there any games that the students will really like and learn from?

how should student engaged in learning

how make first imprssion?

what can topic should i includ on lesson plan?

how to motivat a student

I find that the facilition process can be handled in multiple fashions. Getting the students involved by letting them choose from a variety of available training methods can generate buy in.

students need to be active in learning in order top do well in any course.

One method is for the instructor to mark key words in the text and develop the ability to glance at a page section and put it in his/her own words. Some "reading dominant" instructors are even able to do this without marking the text or can mark it as they go through it. This allows the instructor to "translate" the text into simplified language. This makes it more conversational. The instructor can also ask questions such as: Isn't that really what it means?" This gives the students the opportunity to speak up and agree or ask a question in a more conversational way. Another method is to use a video with many "bullet" points. The instructor can freeze the DVD at the points and discuss them with the class. They can be restated--put in other words--as well. David Leon Cooper, MS (Ed Adm)

One method of starting a class is to ask the students how they would like to proceed. This does not mean that they take control. They should be given choices that are appropriate. The instructor can let the students know what should be done but allow the students to participate in the decision as to how the sequence shouls be. This empowers the students. David Leon Cooper, MS (Ed. Adm.)

One of the big problems in the vocational-technical school industry is the transfer of credits from these institutions to "regular" colleges. Students spend a great del of time and money in these voc-tech programs yet find mostly a "brick wall" when it comes to such transfers. It is clearly substantially political since legally there are few barriers for institutions accredited by entities approved by the US Dept. of Education. I suppose one way to go would be to incorporate CLEP testing within the programs. . . How does this relate to the topic? Preparation for discussion with the students about their future needs in the profession and credentialing that would normally be required of an instructor to support and mentor a student. --David Leon Cooper, MS (Ed Adm)

This module is spot in regard to making a first impression with your class. An instructor has one time to do this properly. Being prepared and using a sense of humor can make the class relax and come together as a good team.

We are in a time where our students are having a hard time at home, work and school. Sometimes saying an affirmation or kind word, can uplift someone and they will have a great day and outlook on there life.

Besides learning styles we need to remember that environment also plays an important role in teaching. I try to create an atmosphere that ALL the students should be confident enough to answer ANY question and not be punished for answering incorrectly. A lot of students do not want to become part of the classroom discussion because they do not have enough self confidence to do so.

one must fully understand the problem in order to get a sucessfull plan in order.

understanding the exact learning problem they have is key to devolping a plan to help students.

a varirety of group activities helps keep it intersesting and maintains focus

eye contact shows you are talking to them and you give them your attention

In my classes I always try to use examples to get my points across. I use own experiences in the workplace to share with my students. I also try to use analogies so that they can use them to relate to the points being taught. It is really amazing how much these things work and make the students understand what you are trying to emphasize.