Darlene Mellen

From this module, I learned that learning becomes more powerful when students see the meaning and value behind what they are learning. When lessons connect to real-world situations, student interests, or future careers, students are more engaged and motivated to put effort into their work. Meaningful learning helps students see that what they are doing in the classroom has a purpose beyond simply completing an assignment.

In my biomedical science courses, I plan to continue connecting lessons to real-world medical scenarios and career pathways. Using case studies, patient scenarios, and hands-on investigations allows students to apply what they are learning… >>>

From this module, I learned the importance of student voice and choice in supporting engagement, confidence, and deeper learning. Giving students options in how they participate, create, and demonstrate their understanding allows them to use their strengths and feel more comfortable sharing their ideas. It also aligns with the UDL principle of action and expression, which encourages providing multiple ways for students to show what they know.

One key idea I plan to apply is offering two or three structured choices for how students complete an assignment or assessment, such as creating a short video explanation, developing a digital slideshow,… >>>

One idea I learned and plan to use in my classroom is providing students with multiple ways to present and demonstrate their learning. Robert Wheatley’s suggestion of offering different modes of presentation—such as sharing in front of the class, during office hours, in breakout rooms, or through screen sharing—highlights the importance of considering students’ comfort levels when asking them to share their work. Allowing these options can reduce anxiety and help students feel more protected and empowered when participating.

This connects to the UDL (Universal Design for Learning) principle of action and expression, which encourages teachers to provide students with… >>>

I see strong value in the “connect before content” approach and plan to apply this concept in my classroom. Before introducing new material, I want to intentionally help students connect the content to their prior experiences, knowledge, or interests. When students can relate new concepts to something they already understand, the learning becomes more meaningful and easier to grasp.

Activating prior knowledge also encourages students to participate and share their ideas. It helps them recognize that they already bring valuable experiences and perspectives to the learning process.

By applying this approach, I hope to create a more engaging and student-centered… >>>

Wow—there was so much in this section that I really loved. One idea that stood out to me was having teachers record their own classes and then reflect on their teaching to identify areas for improvement. That approach sounds incredibly powerful because it allows teachers to observe their own instruction from a different perspective and notice things they may not have realized in the moment. The opportunity for self-reflection and growth that comes from watching your own teaching is something I find really exciting, and it’s a strategy I’m eager to try in my own classes.

Once you have built a trusting relationship with the teacher, you can encourage them to try new methods in the classroom while you are there to coach and support them. Teachers need to feel supported and appreciated. As coaches, we can help teachers see that we are not trying to add yet another thing to their plate; rather, we are helping them build on their strengths and teaching pedagogy.

It is important to help teachers identify and build on their strengths.  It is equally important not to make them feel defeated by your feedback.  You are both invested in the same outcome: student achievement.  

I learned the importance of shifting the mindset around evaluations from something teachers endure to something they value. I now understand that effective evaluations should provide detailed, meaningful feedback that supports teacher growth and leads to improved student outcomes. I plan to apply this learning by intentionally building strong relationships with teachers and earning their trust, so the evaluation process feels collaborative, supportive, and focused on a shared goal rather than a top-down requirement.