Marcia Tillotson

I have learned that soft skills are important to development of professionalism in students.  There are many ways that we as instructors can help to facilitate creativity and critical thinking in our students.

This was a great presentation on Emotional Intelligence and it helps to explain how and why we all process stress and how we relate to others.  

I learned that soft skills are even more important than technical skills in most careers and I was surprised by the study done that confirmed that fact. 

I learned that Rubrics are essential tools that should be developed by the instructor and given to students in advance of the due date for the project or assignment so students have an objective measeure of the expectations for the project or outcome.

I learned how gernerational communication styles vary among students and that as an instructor, we must be aware of the differences to effectively communicate with our students.  In addition, we need to ensure that all students are participating in class especially when learning remotely or online.  If a student is not participating, it is imperative as an instructor to try and engage the student and inform them that participation in class is required.  

I found this information to be very helpful.  I learned that establishing the Communication Code rules and etiquette  early on in the class helps to maintain civil and respectful communication between instructor, student and student to student as well.  Keeping communication civil, respectful and professional benefits the whole class.

I have learned how important it is to get feedback on your particular comuunication tool to ensure that any problems or difficulties the students may be experiencing with that tool is addressed and corrected in a timely manner.

I learned about the value of good communication and dealing with disruptions to good online learning immediately. There are many types of student learners and it is important for the Instructor to be able to identify and deal effectively and fairly with each student as well as maintain order and good communication in your online classroom.

I have learned there are many ways to project your presence and authority using an online forum with students.  It is also equally important to get to know the students and their biographies so you can relate to them and establish trust in the classroom with each student. 

I have learned how important it is to be completely familiar with The Course Managaemnt System and Course content 

so that you can assist students in successfully using the CMS and navigating your course content.  Students can become 

frustrated if the CMS is not running smoothly or the Instructor is not prepared ahead of time to use the online platform

effectively.