Samuel BalanoffCHEP

Although most educators have learned these theories and use them in delivering their classes, this course was a great reminded to collectively recall the vast body of theories and knowledge that we must consider to be effective educators.  I think often we tend to gravitate to the theory/style we are most comfortable with, then try to get everyone to learn through a single modality.  This course reminded me that we must "level the playing field" by using best practices and truly understanding each group of students, what syles they are most likely to be effective with, and what motivates them. … >>>

As I completed the ED113 course regarding classroom management for adults, I realized the need to frequently visit the effectiveness of ones teaching style and classroom management techinques.  As educators, I think we oftne become comfortable with a dominant style and as such, tend to use one style more often than others (assuming our style works for us and the students will always adapt).  In the name of continuous improvement and the dynamic and diverse demographics of adult learners - I think there is even a greater need to consider, execute, and evaluate a hybrid approach to classroom management.  The… >>>

Completing the ED115 course I am reminded of the importance of recognizing the role emotions play in the success in a classroom.  With class sizes increasing and content using a vairety of mediums for delivery, I find that sometimes I forget the "emotional card" in how people respond and learn when EQ and self-realization of one's emotions vary greatly from person-to-person and situation-to-situation.  The course helped reel in the necessity for considering emotion to successfully instruct a course in today's complex landscape.....

Despite many years of teaching adult learners, I must say that the ED112 course on motivating students has rekindled my interest and knowledge in this area.  I think we often need to revisit concepts that we may feel have been 'mastered' to ensure we are positively impacting the successful outcomes of our students.  I found the course to be a wonderful refresher in how to analyze, view, and evaluate motivational techniques among adult learners.  Well worth the time.....

I really enjoyed ED111 (Active Learning) as a reminder of the importance of allowing students to help facilitate their own learning.  I think far too often we get cornered into subjectively believing that lectures and pedogogical methods are the preferred method of teaching.  Adult learners are very different and flourish when active learning teachniques are employed.  ED111 reaffirmed my belief that enabling students to help each other and self-direct themselves to positive outcomes is an effective, and often necessary, method to successful learning.

I enjoyed the ED106 module - especially the section/emphasis on students with learning disabilities.  What was once an exception to deal with in the classroom, is now becoming a reality to all instructors.  As we advance in the diagnosis and treatments of various learning disabilities, we are seeing an increase of affected students in the classroom.

I really liked the outline of the most common learning disabilities we are most likely to encounter in the academic arena, and the strategies to provide a learning environment that gives all students the opportunity to learn while maintaining an inclusive atmosphere.  I think… >>>

I really enjoyed the interaction of participants in the forums while taking courses.  Even when dealing with content areas that I feel I have "mastered", I never had difficulty looking at a different perspective that enabled me to consider additional viewpoints.  I recognize the power and influence of creative professionals discussing key topics and sharing perspectives and solutions to real-world issues we educators face everyday.

I would highly encourage every participant to enter into each course with an open mind and an open notebook....