Deborah Rasmussen

Comment on Laura Hogins's post: I have found it very helpful to have plenty of backup resources and activities. Sometimes it seems that there isn't enough time to finish all the work and other times the goals and objectives were met sooner than I expected. Having backup activities and plans has been very helpful. 

Comment on Tikeama Buckingham's post:

I find it challenging to quickly learn the names of the individual students. I have given them large index cards and asked them to write their preferred name on it. Also, I've given them multiple colored markers so they can decorate the card if they want to. That has helped me learn their names sooner and some students have really enjoyed the artistic effort. 

Comment on Justin Markle's post: I also find a checklist very helpful in order to make sure that I cover the important tasks for the days. I encourage the students to use checklists for their study and review purposes. 

Comment on Michelle DeJong's post: As an instructor it is always important to remember that our students are watching us closely and learning from us. We want and need to project a professional image in all of our interactions with the students so that they will learn how to present themselves to others, as a professional. 

Comment on Shane Apperley's post: 

I have found that students with learning disabilities tend to be embarrassed about the difficulty. When I see a student struggling I will speak with them privately and ask them what challenges they are working with. If they tell me they need extra time or have difficulty reading I suggest that they speak with their doctor about the concern and possible diagnosis. 

I have had the experience of teaching 2 students in different classes with undiagnosed dyslexia. In both cases while watching them complete math tests and other work I noted that they took an exceptionally long time to complete the assignments. However, their answers were correct and they did well on the tests. I spoke with the students individually and both told me that they had always "struggled" in school. Thankfully our organization was able to assist both students. As instructors we need to be aware that there may be learning difficulties that the students are not aware of or don't… >>>

Comment on Francisco Gonzalez's post: 

I assign different topics to different groups and then have them give a presentation. While the students are talking I take notes on the white board for review purposes. Also, if the group forgets important points I am able to add the information so that the entire class learns. 

Comment on Kelly Staveley's post: 

I think floating around the classroom is very helpful. The students pay more attention to what I am saying and if there are students not paying attention.... hiding their cell phones etc. I am able to intervene and redirect them back to the topic. 

Comment on Kasey Wade's post: 

The information and videos helped me to better understand the role and usefulness of gamification. I would like to see more information about how to do this in complex theory classes. 

Comment on Yvonne Silva's post: 

Having a positive attitude is very important for the educator and the students. The instructor/educator has a great deal of influence over the students, smiling, being welcoming, and adding fun to class makes a tremendous difference for everyone.