Deborah Rivera

I learned about "scaffolding": students will build their learning off of what they know, experiences and work.  This is important for an Instructor to understand from each student; this will help the instructor with each student's learning meter.  How will I apply this to my class? what came to light were the dynamics of communication with Instructor 2 Students. Making sure each dynamic is met effectively. 

So far I am pumped with this learning tool.  I have learned to set short learning videos no more then 10 minutes.  Students begin to loose interest and information is lost if learning videos are longer.  I understand why my Institute has developed their learning plan in such a manner.  How I can use this information?  I can use these guidelines when developing my power points.  

Get organized!! Each student have their own e-mail folders when working your e-mail.  E-learners will display their own learning behaviors even through this type of learning forum.  

Requesting feedback during the course is essential in determining if what is leaned has been grasped.  Instructors may feel vulnerable by asking the students if their is anything the Instructor is doing that makes a Student uncomfortable. Not all students learn in the same manner and Instructors may need to adjust their teachings to ensure All students are understanding the curriculum.  Discussion forums are essential for students to feel connected to one another.  Also, understanding the various types of learners and the personality traits they display in this type of learning atmosphere. 

This is great information even if your course isn't online.  Such as getting to know your students and their expectations of you as an instructor.  

I learned there are many resources available for our Veterans and students with TBI.  We as instructors should continue to educate ourselves on various learning strategies to help these students. As instructors we are not here to enable students but offer support, respect and understanding.  

Personally, I was not aware of the IEP developmental plan students had available for them in their younger educational years.  What a wonderful tool for the educational program to have developed.  It's was emotional overwhelming to know the statistics of these younger children to have developed PTSD.  As an educator for adults, I appreciated knowing this information and how it can impact how I approach my students and teaching skills. 

Checklists will be essential to help you remember various tasks and/or keep track of all the tasks that will need to be covered in your class.  Arriving early gives the Instructor the advantage of greeting each student personally and asking for feedback regarding the course.    

We can always improve our teaching skills.  Set goals and create a plan of actions of what skills we are needing and wanting to improve.  If we are not excited about the subject we are teaching how do we expect our students to become excited.  We are the students role models, manager and motivator.