Celina Corzo

The more variety to the teaching, the better. It keeps the students engaged. Students can only retain 5-7 steps in a skill technique demonstration and practice. Do not read word-for-word off your powerpoint. Instead have a prepared lecture through a lecture plan with an outline or at least cues to not leaveout key points but keep the lecture or teaching engaging.

By making the class more relaxing and comfortable, the first day of class can set the students expectations for how the course will progress. Personal introductions and ice breakers are recommended the first day.

Basically, this module stresses the importance of utilizing and keeping top-notch organization skills for the class you will teach. Extensive preparation is essential to be successful. Know the students needs and names, come to class early, have the class prepped for well in advance, have a very concise syllabus. Keeping a notepad nearby at all times will keep your thoughts organized throughout the day to not forget anything important.

My biggest take-aways were:

1. Professionalism and being a model of the profession you are trying to teach is of utmost importance. Not only can you teach the subject, you have to BE a good example of the profession itself.

2. You need to keep re-educating YOURSELF on the latest in the field in order to be the best instructor. Some ways to do that is go to seminars for professional organizations and read journal articles from the field.