Sandra Goddard

This module discussed growth mindset, hope, grit, gratitude, and mindfulness, and how to foster these strengths in students to help them face the challenges they encounter through school and life. The module cited multiple research studies that support the positive effect of these strengths when employed on a consistent basis. Some exercises that were offered include focusing on intentional mindfulness, writing a letter of heartfelt gratitude, and writing a speech to accept a lifetime achievement award.

This module discussed the core values and their associated strengths. For example, the strengths of appreciation of beauty, spirituality, and love of mankind are all under the umbrella of transcendence. Some other values include wisdom, bravery, and prudence. Identifying our signature strengths can help students see themselves in a different light, provide a purpose for learning, and challenge themselves to achieve their goals. Our strengths can also bolster us when things don't go as planned or when we are feeling down. One suggested exercise recommends closing the eyes, focus on breathing for 15 seconds, and then think about a strength… >>>

This module continued the discussion positivity by looking at finding your personal strengths and using them to reflect on your goals and purpose for learning. One exercise that was offered was to write a daily reflection of what you are grateful for. Another suggested assessing each class regarding why it is important to take this course, how will it help me make peoples' lives better, and what might be challenging in this class and how will remembering my purpose for learning help me face this challenge. I think this exercise is especially useful when teaching a difficult class. 

This module discusses the shift of psychology to focus on positive thoughts and overall well-being, and how to apply that to our life and the classroom. Research has shown that focusing on character strengths, positive thoughts, and personal reflection can improve our feelings of life satisfaction. Some techniques suggested in the readings include daily self reflection using the PERMA model, deep breathing exercises before taking an exam, pointing out a student's strengths, and pairing meditation with detention. 

This module discusses and gives examples of common instructor mistakes. Starting with how the instructor presents himself/herself - don't make a habit of discussing personal problems in the classroom, don't deflate the class morale by announcing that you never give As in your class, don't try to be buddies with the students, and don't emphasize your lack of experience in teaching. It is important to learn the names of your students, take control and the classroom, be prepared for class, and be consistent, respectful, and honest. Some solutions to making common mistakes include realizing and accepting mistakes will be made,… >>>

Each class will come with students that can be challenging - those who want to give up and quit, manipulators, distractors, and center stagers. To some extent, students that are acting out want or need attention from the instructor. Some students may be overwhelmed with life stresses and pressures of school, and they end up thinking they cannot follow through with their educational goals and want to quit. They need personal attention to suggest possible resources to help with their stressors and to help them feel like they are a valued part of the class. Manipulators want to bend the… >>>

This module is about getting the students engaged and interested in the class and their fellow students. It is important to address WIIFM - or what's in it for me; students learn better if they feel the material is important to their desired career and goals. Explain why the curriculum is important and how they will use it in the workplace. To help the student get engaged with the class, you can have physical activities that get the students to work together. It is also important to have a detailed, clear written, and eye-catching syllabus. The syllabus should address assignments,… >>>

This module covered techniques for getting the most benefit out of using Chat GPT. Students can use Chat GPT to get information quickly, organize their notes to facilitate studying for exams, practice learning a new language, check math problems, and summarize complex or lengthy essays or articles. Interestingly, some students who were surveyed regarding their experiences and opinions on Chat GPT thought it might be misused by students to cheat, and it might be better to prohibit its use in schoolwork. Instructors can also use Chat GPT to individualize lesson plans, initiate a creative writing assignment, or grade written assignments. 

This module discussed Chat GPT - how to use it, how it can benefit students and instructors, and disadvantages to using it. Chat GPT is easy to use - just type in a question, hit enter, and wait for the answer. The more specific the questions or parameters the more specific the answer will be. Students can use Chat GPT to find answers to questions on a wide variety of topics, and they can use their own curiosity to ask follow up questions to learn more. Instructors can use Chat GPT to help them tailor a lesson plan for a… >>>

Chat GPT works on a neural network to acquire and process information based on statistical evaluation of the data that has been inputted. Chat GPT can help individualize learning for students based on their learning style and pace. It can provide answers to questions on a wide variety of topics, and pose questions to encourage critical thinking. It can also help instructor with providing regular substantive feedback.