Magen Goforth

This module clearly outlined the importance and impact of a well-constructed grading rubric. This module reiterated that rubrics are great assessment tools and help provide students with clear and transparent expectations and feedback regarding their work, ensuring consistency and objectivity from the instructor. Using a rubric for students to self-evaluate allows them to take ownership of their learning, evaluate areas for improvement, and recognize successes. Rubrics are also great for helping students set goals for their coursework and implement steps to achieve or exceed those goals. 

This module highlighted the use of assessment and its value. I enjoyed the breakdown of traditional assessment vs authentic assessment. My biggest takeaway was that with traditional assessment, the curriculum drives the assessment, and with authentic assessment, the assessment drives the curriculum. The backward design model fits my class assessments well "as it focuses on the student's ability to perform the tasks and display the skills and knowledge required on the job."

I learned most from the guidance on overcoming learning resistance in this module. Change can be challenging to cope with and to understand the benefits of such change. I like the suggestions on preventing or reducing learning resistance, such as making learning activities relevant to real-world applications and providing timely feedback through transparent communication.

I took the most out of the mutual communication section. Communication can be the most significant barrier regarding the delivery of information. Ensuring communication is all-inclusive and delivered in a safe and comfortable learning environment is essential to allow for opinions and ideas to be shared and analyzed. 

I like the just-in-time teaching model. I like the flexibility it offers while making the student the center focus. Implementing the active learning concepts would be manageable and effective in the classroom. Implementing this model will enhance the students' learning and increase their engagement. 

I enjoyed learning more in-depth about the pedagogical models and how they can be used individually or in combination. Using these models will help to create engaging and effective learning environments. I like that these different models allow for adaptation to different students' specific needs and interests. 

Because most of my proficiencies are calculated by live demonstration, this module was a great reminder of the importance of diversifying my testing structure and ensuring that I have a variety of question types. One aspect of mastery measurement and testing that I wish was focused on a little more was understanding the importance of the proper amount of time being allotted. Often, students will shut down if they see a test with many questions and a short amount of time. It takes them about half way through the test to settle down and realize they will have enough time. 

A few key takeaways from this module that I found interesting and easily applicable were how to get students to listen to each other, how to ask effective questions and the importance of developing well-worded questions that students need to know. 
When struggling with students who don't seem to listen to their peers when answering questions, as an instructor, you can ask other students to "paraphrase or respond to their classmates." by doing this, you are more likely to keep the student's attention and engagement. 
To ensure instructors are asking "good questions," we should develop the questions for lectures ahead… >>>

 Learning to adapt to teaching Net Generation students vs Baby Boomers and Generation X is essential to maintaining an effective classroom. Adapting will help create a more effective learning environment and success for students. Utilizing a flipped classroom concept is a great way to adjust and allow students to "evaluate, analyze, and synthesize" the information provided in each activity more efficiently.

My biggest takeaway from this lesson was the importance of the first five to ten minutes. This is the moment we have to set the tone for our students. We can grab their attention and interest them in what we are learning. The course noted that well-planned introductory activities save time and allow teachers to provide extra coverage of essential concepts. Students come more prepared and ready to learn more quickly. The lesson also noted the importance of closing activities. Making sure the content is memorable and functional. This will help students apply what they have learned and should… >>>