Anthony Rhodes Nalls

One of the most impactful takeaways from this module was learning the term "Learning Facilitator." This concept really shifted my perspective on the role of an educator. Rather than simply delivering content, I now see the value in guiding and supporting students through their own learning journeys. I plan to adopt this mindset going forward, as it encourages a more student-centered approach.

Another idea that resonated with me was the correlation between how we learn and how we facilitate learning. It’s something I hadn’t consciously considered before, but it makes perfect sense. Our personal learning experiences shape our teaching styles,… >>>

Discussion Post: Applying Troubleshooting Strategies to Enhance Engagement

This module’s troubleshooting scenarios were incredibly useful, and I found the proposed solutions to be universally insightful. They offered practical strategies that I can apply across a variety of classroom situations. One example that stood out to me was the approach to student disengagement. Using pretests and course status assessments to gauge where students are can help me tailor my content delivery to be more relevant and relatable, which is key to maintaining engagement.

I already incorporate interactive tools like Jeopardy, Kahoot, and media platforms like Picmonic to make learning more dynamic.… >>>

Discussion Post: Integrating Insights into Instructional Practice

This module has given me a much deeper understanding of the distinctions between training, instruction, learning, and education. Recognizing how each plays a unique role in the educational process has helped me better conceptualize my responsibilities as an instructor and how I can more effectively support my students' growth.

One of the most exciting takeaways for me is that I now feel more confident in presenting content in ways that can lead students to those powerful “Aha!” moments. Understanding how to structure lessons to spark curiosity and connect with students’ prior knowledge has… >>>

Discussion Post: Reflection on Pedagogy and Instructional Practice

This module has deepened my understanding of pedagogy and its powerful influence on learning. Through reflection, I began to see how the teaching styles of my past instructors have shaped the kind of instructor I am today. Some were inspiring and engaging, while others revealed approaches I now recognize as less effective. This reflection helped me identify both strengths and areas for growth in my own teaching.

One of the most impactful parts of this module was the focus on classroom preparation and the mindset of an instructor. These questions encouraged me… >>>

Reflecting on This Module: Growth as an Instructor

One of the most impactful lessons I’ve taken from this module is that being an effective and professional instructor starts well before stepping into the classroom—and it certainly doesn’t end when the class is over. The mindset, preparation, and presence an instructor brings are foundational to creating a positive and productive learning environment.

I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how technical expertise, professional conduct, and personal competencies all work together to build rapport with students. These elements are not just about delivering content—they’re about modeling appropriate behavior, managing the classroom effectively, and… >>>

While I do not create my lesson plans from scratch, I recognize that our objectives and standards are determined by our licensing authority and accrediting bodies. However, this lesson has reinforced the critical role I play as an instructor in ensuring that these expectations are met while also making the material engaging and relevant for my students.

I now see the importance of crafting objectives that are positive, specific, and realistic, providing a strong foundation for effective teaching. Moving forward, I plan to evaluate my lesson plan objectives using Bloom’s Taxonomy and the A-B-C-D model, which will help ensure clarity… >>>

Comment on Rudy Gonzales's post: I love this! 

I have gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of developing a rationale for a lesson plan, rather than relying solely on objectives. Establishing a clear rationale ensures that lessons are purposeful, effectively aligned with student needs, and support meaningful learning outcomes.

Additionally, I now better understand the value of documenting lesson plans for evaluation and future refinement. While I had already begun incorporating this practice, I now recognize its significance in improving instructional delivery and overall lesson effectiveness. By maintaining thorough documentation, educators can assess and enhance their approaches, leading to more impactful learning experiences.

This insight has reinforced… >>>

I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of assessing students' prior knowledge before introducing new material. This approach allows educators to tailor instruction effectively, ensuring that students at varying levels of experience and cognitive ability receive the support they need.

I also explored various techniques for gauging student understanding, such as pre-assessments, interactive discussions, and formative evaluations. Implementing these strategies enhances engagement and promotes meaningful learning experiences. Additionally, I learned how to adapt instruction to accommodate different cognitive levels, making lessons more accessible and impactful for all learners.

Understanding and applying these principles will strengthen my ability to… >>>

I gained valuable, actionable techniques to address common classroom challenges, including student disengagement, disruptions, and disrespect. It was reassuring to realize that I had already been implementing some of these strategies in my approach to classroom management. Additionally, I now have a deeper understanding of the reasoning behind effective improvisation, allowing me to respond to unexpected issues while maintaining students' dignity. These insights will help me create a more supportive and structured learning environment where students feel respected and motivated to engage.