Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

Today an instructor has so many more teaching tools than ever before. We can literally involve our students in a real time discussion with students in other parts of the world. We are way beyond power point. We can use skyp, video, interactive games. For a creative instructor the possibilities are limitless.

Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

Theory and Practice

Working with students at a theory level is insufficient for a complete learning experience. Many times theory or what is taught in the class room does not translate well in the real world. I've had students that "get it" when they see in action what I've attempted to teach them. In addition, I see that some of the information I'm currently teaching needs to be updated.

Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

ED 101

I just finished ED 101. This course was not part of my baseline, but the school at which I teach prompted the other instructors to get started. It was very basic for a seasoned instructor. However, I did see value for the new teacher.

Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

Putting students at ease

I find that some students start to sweat when I announce that everyone must share something personal. I know the feeling and there is no way around it for some students. What I'll do to ease tension for them is model a brief description of my favorite food, place, animal, color, etc. I may be more relevant to college and tell my major in college and what I did with my degree. Then I ask the students to turn to the person sitting next to them and introduce their name, and favorite??? Then I ask each student to introduce the… >>>

Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

Shy students in groups

I'm having a difficult time allowing a few adult learners to get into groups. The shy students sit in their seats and hope I don't make them move to a group. They know that group participation is part of a participation grade, but that doesn't seem to matter. I don't want to embarrass them and incur the wrath of a passive aggressive attitude. Any suggestions?

Tim Barnes

Discussion Comment

Dealing with dominant students

Ask a question and an engaged and enthusiastic student answers - great answer. Next question same student. I like the suggestions in the study of giving students color cards and asking for answers from certain color sections. However, I usually ask students to raise their hands when the question requires a specific answer, that way I can say, "Angela you give such well thought out answers I would like to hear from some of the other students. If the discussion requires open ended answers, I might have students get into groups of three and discuss the answer for 3 min.… >>>

Tim Barnes

Discussion

Active Learning

I'm wanting to add more creative learning strageties to my instruction. Students often comment that the course (Psychology) is interesting, but I'm always looking for ways to create an interactive learning environment.