Ben Smith

I struggle with understanding, especially on certain subjects, that the students may not share the same passion I have for the subject. Not only do I expect them to know more than they really should, but I expect them to also have the same excitment during class or when answering a question. 

Have not experienced many issues addressed in this module. It was all very insightful to learn about these adverse situations in the classroom. 

Hold to course requirements, but also be willing to work with students as everyone's situation is different. 

Learn to read the students and the energy in the classroom. Go in with a plan, but also be flexible as the mood of the classroom changes. Don't be afraid to try something different. 

Make standards for students and hold them to those standards. 

Be professional but also personable with the students. 

I believe the biggest take away from this topic as an instructor is to be a students instructor, or a student-first instructor. By this I mean create a friendly learning environment for the student which they feel comfortable in. Instead of 'ruling' the classroom as the 'almighty instructor', facilitate the act of learning; don't simply talk at your students. 

Though technology is so important, and is important for our students in their time after graduation, I still think of it as a tool. Just one of many tools that can be used strategically in the classroom. As for inquiry based learning, I love it. Some of my favorite active learning strategies include elements of inquiry based learning. The students really seem to like it too. 

I learned about some great tools that can help us bring some structure to the planning process and will ultimately make for a better learning environment throughout the semester. I have been wanting to do more structured planning, but needing a good road map to help me do so. I enjoyed this unit!

I knew student engagement was an important aspect, but I didn't know just how important it could be to not only a successful learning environment, but to the student's future. I plan to utilize more group projects and industry related assignments to assess students in addition to traditional tests.