Aethene Aguilar

I learned to be aware of students that have learning disabilities. Hopefully, students would be comfortable enough to approach a teacher with their disabilities so that he/she can help them better and that the students may also help themselves by letting the teacher know what ways helped them in the past. I also learned that there are 5 categories of common learning disabilities, to which I really only have been aware of the most common one: dyslexia. 

I learned about the alternative ways to help diverse learners understand better. Repetition is key. When introduced with new words, make sure to pronounce slowly, give definition and then examples to help them connect and retain the information. Also use instructional supports. 

I've learned that student monitoring is essential in teaching. It keeps problems small and gives awareness if the students are completing their tasks or not. If there is a group projects, split students into 6-8 minimum if possible. Never reassign; intervene before anything. 

I've learned that clear presentations like using memorable examples can help students retain information better. Also using non verbal communication like body movements & facial expressions can add flair to the presentation. Smiling, making eye contact & "floating" around the classroom helps with student engagement as well as level of tone when speaking. 

I learned to shape lectures to implement different learning styles. Practice delivery by recording myself then review/journal my observations about how my lecture went; this can help me improve for the next time. I really appreciated the ideas for how to run the lecture, like the 10-15 chunks and especially the 3x5 cards for question bank. Demonstrating is equally important as well as the debriefing afterward. 

I've learned a lot about how to handle the first day of class. A lot of great tips to break the ice and set expectations for the course.

I've learned that it's not only smart to prepare for the day, but it really is very essential to teaching. And even as a teacher, you are also still learning. Having a professional development plan is beneficial to self-improvement and growth in the field.

I've learned about the 3 roles I must embody with my students -- Model, Manager and Motivator. It is also important to have professionalism with the students; for example, coming in on time, speaking with good manners and presenting good hygiene.