christopher greene

The first step in solving any problem is admitting one exists.  Then we need to define the actual problem precisely.  Then research, and gather information.  Then analyze the data, and find the best solution.  Put it into effect, then evaluate if it solved the problem.  When we teach our students to become better creative critical thinkers we empower them to change the world for the better. 

To become better teachers we must understand that students have different learning styles.  We can do more to help them take their 3 primary styles and show them how to weave them into problem-solving.  We must also touch on and teach about emotional intelligence and reflective thought. 

For our world to survive, we must teach our students about reasoning, discipline, questioning, and judgment.   If we do not help our students develop the ability to question the world around them, they will simply learn to parrot the answers of those who hold the most influence over them.  

As teachers, we have a duty to our students, not just to give knowledge.  We must teach how to analyze, apply, and use the knowledge to determine real value, real truth, or real merit of all things they must make judgments upon. 

Collaborative and cooperative learning is the learning of the future.  While we a lack of it in K-12, it must be brought to the forefront of higher education.  Challenging discussion boards for example.  I have a political science/history discussion board that revolves around the Housing crisis of 2008 and askes the student to evaluate two groups,  Occupy Wall Street and the Tea Party, to show their similarities  and differences.  How they reflect into  American political concepts like Progressivism, Equality, Pursuit of Happiness or the Preamble.  

Be aware of your students ability to use active learning tools. also be aware that they may be anxious about the use of the technology.  Communicate with them consistently and set expectations.  Help them with time management issues.  Let your students be creative since it is the highest form of learning. 

If Institutions want to be successful they need to make sur that instructions have all the necessary tools to create an active learning environment.   Institutions need to be aware of the time needed to implement these techniques and reward instructors who implement.  Instructors who can get students to be more engaged are a major asset to the institution.

Stay away from the same delivery styles.  Mix up different delivery styles.  Keep students focused and engaged.  

I teach Politics Science.   Most of my students groan when they see it on the schedule.  So for the class to make sense to them, during the first class, I introduce a Founding father - Dr. Benjamin Rush. Dr. Rush was a physician, abolitionist, writer, etc.  He is the father of American psychology, introduced animal medical sciences  to America, and took care of the poor and imprisoned at little cost.  He is also a signer of the Declaration of independence.  I read to them from his biography and challenge them to look at the course through his eyes.  Also to… >>>

Class starts well before students enter the room.  The more prepared we are the better model we will be for our students. Come in the day before to prep your room and our last minute updates. For the instructor being on time is 30 minutes early.   Great students, have music playing, laugh with them, get to know them.