Nathan Biggerstaff

Nathan Biggerstaff

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Discussion Comment
I completely agree with all that is promoted in this section; however, with me being a communication instructor I feel most students identify soft skills as purely an innate behavior. "I already know how to communicate with others" is a very common complaint from my students. Is there a method/way that could by-pass all the complaints about learning these emotional intelligence/soft skills/people skills?
Discussion Comment
I am not a fan of open-book tests, because I feel it does not show whether a student learned material, but how quickly can they look up the information. What are your thoughts?
I understand the need for quizzes and tests completely, and feel they do an excellent job in ascertaining what is necessary. My question is, what about pop-quizzes? Do those really assess what is known, or it simply just a tool to scare students?
Discussion Comment
I believe waiting time to be the most important aspect of questioning. When I first started teaching I would question notice the uncomfortableness and then just answer it. I suppose my question would be, what other tactics have you used to generate more questions using waiting time?
I believe that this issue does arise, but gets swept under the metaphorical rug. Our students are primarily those entering the medical field, so they often times assume that they are kinesthetic in nature. IS this assumption a problem, or should we as instructors promote it?
Discussion Comment
Within the module the idea that student learners are primarily autonomous was brought up. I don't know if I completely agree with that, considering that previous modules have identified how easily our students can leave. I do agree they are somewhat idependent in nature; however, where is the disconnect and what can we do with the needy students?
I have been in the teaching field for 3 years, and I feel that I have yet to have to recharge my battery; however I think it's due to the everchanging material I use in the classroom. Teaching English, I have the opportunity to bring in new material to get the points across. What other methods do you find helpful?
Discussion Comment
It seems that one part overlooked and/or given little attendance is the idea of ethical behavior and retention. When do we cross an ethical boundary when keeping students in the program or school?

I understand the basic needs of our students especially those of an older age and those with disabilities; however, my questions stems from those students who really don't have a motivation to learn. I have had instances in which I feel my level of accommodation is above and beyond what is necessary, especially for those students who may get what they want from the school and leave 3/4 of the way through the term. So where is the line? Do I as an isntructor try to accommodate all needs, or when I feel my moral obligation has run dry, should… >>>

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