An an instructor and academic administrator, we have created First Day Check Off list to all of our students. We do this everytime a new module (every 5/8 weeks) starts. It is a simple, brief, concise checklist for both instructors and students. We highlight academic policies, procedures, expectations, academic requiremtns, student behavior, professionalism, attendance policies, etc. It made our life less stressful since all the intructors are in the same page as to what to be discussed with the students. Best practices to share.

I find that it is always a good idea to disclose something about yourself. Without getting too personal, this can be very effective is developing a rapport with your students.

First thing I ve learned as an instructor is that one has to know and learn thyself. Passion in teaching will only surface if this is really a true calling. An instrcutor may have all the knowledge and credentials in the field but being able to disseminate the information to the students is another story. Second thing, know thy students. Make it a game by memorizing students first names during the first week. Call their first name. This is the only way that students will know that they are valued in the classroom because they are known not only by the instructor but also by the students.

I have students fress out of high school and vet`s . the vet`s are more focus than the students just out of high school and this presents a challange.

Would'nt it be better to assess a student rather than test them.

Students really are only engaged about 12-15 minutes at a time. With that in mind the mini-lecture is a great way to deliver content.

I work in the student services office at my school and i am also training to be an instructor. Do you think this hurts me or helps to be a better instructor? In one way i know a lot about the students as individuals and in another they don't see me as an instructor, they see me as the office person. Let me know what you think?

I teach a fundamental English class and teach them study skills. I have them do an assessment on learning styles, Multiple Intelligence, and a personality test. These tests seem to be pretty accurate and tell me a lot about each student. I then have them summarize the results for me.

I have asked students at the end of the second day of what they thought about the first day of class. I was surprised when a few of the students said that most Instructors come on "like the all mighty masters" and the students need to do what they say or else. I was wondering if anyone else has had the same feed back from their students and what did they think about this statement?

I teach clinical at two different acute care hospitals for LVN program. Trying to meet all needs of all students and constantly trying to integrate and measure the effectiveness of classroom instruction into clinical setting to help students develop skills and proficiency is a continual challenge. However, by keeping in touch with classroom instructors, advance planning, knowing the policies and procedures of the clinical site and by providing in writing what is expected of each student helps manage the assignment. Also encouraging students to practice, practice and practice to help them better retain learned information.

As instructors, we must not lose the vision of being fair and just when grading student tests. As a role model, we instructors must inspire students to be honest and to take their studies seriously to better themselves. I say this because I have come across students who are taking classes to just get by and do not take thier studies seriously.

This section suggested that it is harder to "train" instructors that have been around for a while. Sure at times that can be true, but it can't be generalized. All of my co-workers have have been teaching longer than I have, except one. Probably all are willing to learn new things. Sometimes it is not easy for them to buy into it, but usually they see how some of the new ways of doing things are better. Just by improving technology every instructor has to learn something new. Anyone still using a typewriter?

I've noticed that a healthy mix of all styles helps students learn overall. Also, if I am lecturing, I tend to use Powerpoint Presentations with pictures, as well as my own experiences and stories to bring the students into the discussion and classroom topics. It does not work all the time, but I find a healthy good percentage of the class finds this way very helpful and helps them learn as well.

A well planned day utilizing a planner and a strong syllubus usually leads to a easy day of instruction. By understanding what information is covered in the sections involved an instructor is ready for anything.

As with anything in life, having a plan is critical to success. Preparation also helps individuals plan the potential pace of the course.

Understanding how to identify and incorporate learning styles in daily activities is critical to keep all students engaged in the course.

The first class meeting is critical since it sets the tone for the class. Although review of the rules and expectations might seem redundant it is necessary to voice what is expected of the students and more importantly what will and will not be tolerated.

As an administrator, it is in my opinion, that the most successful instructors are NOT the most popular, or the most knowledgeable, the most successful instructors are the ones who can teach. The individuals who can make a connection with the most unmotivated that is true success.

What are the different methods you can communicate objectives to your class? How do your students know when they have been completed properly?

I have found out this is a great tool to motivate new students. We have former students come into the class room and share their "real world" experiences with new students. Once they see that a fellow student is successful and happy with their career choice, it motivates them to try harder and reach their goal. We also have a Wall of Fame where graduated students who have been accepted into advanced training programs can come and sign the wall in front of the new students and give testimony of how hard work and good attendance pays off.