Zhanna Martirosyan

I learned that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but also an emotional and cognitive process that relies heavily on motivation, memory, and engagement. The brain prefers novelty and meaningful connections, which is why rote memorization often feels frustrating and ineffective. As an instructor, it is important to design learning experiences that stimulate curiosity, integrate new knowledge with what students already know, and provide opportunities for them to apply concepts in relevant ways.

I also learned that memory plays a central role in the success of learners. Since every lesson involves imparting new information, how students receive, store, and… >>>

I learned that the physical and emotional environment of the classroom plays a crucial role in student success. The classroom should be clean, organized, and welcoming, because first impressions shape how students feel about the learning process. Beyond appearance, the space should also reflect the professional field students are preparing to enter, reinforcing the connection between their studies and future careers. A secure environment where students feel safe, accepted, and respected sets the foundation for meaningful learning.

I also learned that self-respect and acceptance are vital for adult and nontraditional learners, who often return to school after setbacks or career… >>>

Comment on Adriele Malone's post: I agree with you, understanding a learner’s motivation early on is key to keeping them engaged. I also think it’s valuable that you mentioned student frustrations, since being aware of those challenges allows us to guide them with empathy and provide strategies to keep them focused on their goals.

Comment on Ryan Mortensen's post: Absolutely, that’s such an important point. Cultural differences and language barriers can really impact how students experience learning, and being mindful of that helps us create a more inclusive classroom. When instructors acknowledge and adapt to those differences, it not only supports student success but also enriches the learning environment for everyone.

Comment on Thomas Teeguarden's post: I agree with you—understanding a student’s background really does make a difference in how effectively we can teach and support them. Building that connection not only creates better communication but also helps students feel more comfortable reaching out when they need guidance. I like that you also mentioned recognizing other sources of support beyond the instructor—it really highlights how learning is strengthened when students know they’re not alone.

From this reading, I learned that support systems are essential for student success, and they come in both external and internal forms. External support systems involve family and friends who help students manage responsibilities like childcare, housing, and transportation, while internal support systems come from the school and instructors. These include financial aid, tutoring, equipment, and, most importantly, encouragement from faculty. For some students, especially nontraditional learners, the support from their instructor and institution may be the only help they have, making it crucial for teachers to offer validation and guidance.

I also learned that motivation and career goals play… >>>

ACCSC emphasizes community and industry alignment through Program Advisory Committees (PACs), ensuring program relevance and student success. Schools must hold regular PAC meetings with proper documentation. Externships must follow structured guidelines and be assessed by qualified personnel. Compliance with these standards supports quality education, graduate employability, and institutional accountability in ACCSC-accredited programs.

ACCSC modernized library standards, allowing schools to provide resources traditionally or digitally. Learner resources must be integrated into curricula, with staff support. Schools must document student services, advising, and transcripts. They must retain financial and employment records for five years. Distance education programs must meet the same student service standards as on-campus programs.

ACCSC ensures institutions offer well-structured programs that prepare students for career success. Program design acts as a bridge between students and their goals, requiring accountability, evaluation, and accreditation. Schools must document student progress, ensure competency-based assessments, and obtain approval for distance education. Accountability in student outcomes and employment rates is essential.

I've learned that student engagement is fundamental to effective learning, but the level of engagement can vary significantly among learners. While some students thrive on novelty and variety, others prefer a more routine approach. To optimize engagement, instructors should tailor their strategies by connecting lessons to students' individual interests, providing timely reminders, and offering a range of interaction methods with the course content. By applying such a personalized, multifaceted approach to maintaining engagement, I would aim to help all learners build self-regulation skills and stay motivated, ensuring their overall academic success. This module was helpful.