DArcie Lennard

Active learning as a key instructional strategy was the lead takeaway so far for me. I like that the focus shifts from age-old instructor at podium lecturing to the "sage on the stage" approach. I intend to apply this knowledge by providing interactive activities and peer-to-peer communications like in discussion boards. Formative assessment can be used alongside collaborative activities in order to engage students deeply with material. 

Comment on Magen Goforth's post: I like that you point out how important rapport with our students can be. Without mutual respect and trust, learning is stifled. 

I think one of the most powerful takeaways is the emphasis on responsive facilitation. When we provide descriptive feedback in democratic learning environments, students are empowered and build confidence. Shifting the center of the classroom from instructor to student-lead takes a great deal of effort and training. Instead of focusing on who is leading, I intend to further make my classrooms collaborative, shared learning environments with skill acquisition that is immediately applicable in adults' lives.