Christopher Brown

Active learning in the ELT program is the main aspect of instruction. Students are often given a problem and asked to design the solution or discuss how to determine the best method for solving the issue. The same with the CSS classes I teach.

I think that setting expectations and rules that the students must follow can be important, but equally important is teh justification for them. Explain to them why they need to learn and understand rules, safety procedures, and why projects are important.

The critical thinking statement in the lesson should be a larger lesson on its own. Each program should have these courses on critical thinking and taking responsibility for their actions/learning.

Students taking an active interest in their learning seems like a simple concept, but often I have seen them waiting to be handed information rather then taking the lead to discover. It is difficult to get those students to interact as they feel that they are there to absorb and regurgitate rather than interact and participate.

Nothing worse than not being willing to change. You have to be able to modify instruction, assignments, feedback and so on to fit the current environment. 

What I like to do when commenting on discussions is to not only include the response to that student, but also make more gerneralized comments to encourage others to read and interact. Might spark more conversations.

I tend to be extremely disciplined (coming from a Marine household). I have a timetable and I stick to it. I set aside certain times for activities like grading, but I also have slots set for extra sessions if needed. If they are not used up, I use that time for prep and catching up.

I know that not every project is one that all students enjoy so when I can, I try and allow for a lot of freedom in the projects. It tends to foster more creativity and interest. For instance, if they were to design a webpage, I would list the basic requirements for the page (how many pages, CSS rules, etc.) and then let them design a (school appropriate) site. 

Whether teaching or designing websites or other pursuits, I always keep in mind those with disabilities. I try to account for as many as I can especially in the art/design department and consideration for colorblind or partially visually impaired people. Making things accessible to EVERYONE is just about impossible, but making it as accessible as you can should be a goal in design.

I understand the need to allow for extra time for assessments, but it must be universal. In this asymchronous environment, I would allow for the same time for all students. If some students needed more time, then I would apply that same time to all involved.