Tammy Cyrus

I think variation is key when it comes to student engagement. The online teaching environment lets you offer variety by using different technology tools and assignments, and by building these strategies into the curriculum framework.

I think immediate feedback on formal assessments and even classroom assignments is important so students can identify what adjustments to make for a successful outcome.  I think this helps them not only in the classroom but also to bring that concept into the workplace - identifying issues that arise, reflecting on the steps/process completed thus far, and having the motivation to make the needed adjustments.  Having an open dialogue with students in a timely fashion about their work performance, formal assessments, etc., helps them decide how to make this right or better. This, in turn, empowers them to take ownership… >>>

This session has reiterated that student-teacher relationships are important: getting to know your students, discovering their strengths and weaknesses, and meeting them where they are.  The strategies covered help ensure your classroom doesn't become a cookie-cutter classroom and encourage differentiated instruction. Implementing gamification, tiered activities, peer tutoring, and community involvement are great ways to reach students who may struggle in a traditional classroom and to reveal strengths neither you nor the student knew existed.

Technology definitely has a place in the classroom and in providing students with real-world experience.  I have used gamification on numerous occasions and found that students are, in fact, more engaged.  I have also learned that students want to see the relevance of what they are learning, so implementing project-based learning and/or simulations is a great way to help them connect what they are learning to how it is applied in the real world.

I think the teacher-student relationship is one of the most important components of teaching.  Establishing that connection will allow you to learn more about them, their strengths, their weaknesses, and their learning abilities. This information helps you determine which resources can make the classroom more engaging and helps you, as the teacher, understand student needs.  

Using these learning resources will also help you create assignments and a classroom environment that supports effective learning for all.  Accessibility is a hot topic right now.  Reviewing the resources available on CAST.org has helped me assess the materials I develop and remove as many… >>>

Wow! That was a lot to take in.  AI has certainly evolved beyond simple questions.  In education, I have seen AI use explode in helping teachers learn more about content, develop lesson plans, and create instructional resources, which aligns well with the section on integrating AI into CTE. While I have seen a lot of pushback against using AI, I also see benefits in using AI in the workplace as a resourceful, efficient tool that boosts productivity.

Using a variety of media strategies can keep students engaged, and making connections with other students is also important in the online community.

The course syllabus is important to provide an overview of the course, along with expectations. Feedback is vital in ensuring that students are on the right track with their learning.

Both asynchronous and synchronous learning require structure and organization.  Having a variety of methods keeps students engaged, but those assignments need to be relevant and help to reinforce what students need to learn. 

It is important to have structural integrity that is user-friendly defining clear expectations, learning objectives, etc., and that navigating a course is just as important. Providing a variety of learning experiences is also important in allowing students to engage in course assignments - always keeping them guessing and excited for learning.