Preparing Yourself for the Classroom | Origin: ED105
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Instructional Planning for Student Success --> Preparing Yourself for the Classroom
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
While I believe that all teaching styles can impart learning to students, the effectiveness of each approach varies based on the needs of the students. I typically work with students in the developmental level of math, which tends to come with a lot of nervousness and apprehension. With those types of demographics, the statue or drill instructor teaching styles tend to minimize success. Students will be bored by an instructor who simply reads from the textbook or slides and are far less likely to engage with the material (which they'll likely find to be equally boring). Drill instructors, even in trying to instill discipline and rigor, will come across as intimidating, will drive wary students away. Any student who had doubts about whether college was a good idea will quickly decide that they're not up to the challenge and could withdraw.
Similarly, my combination of Zen and Socratic could come across as boring or even condescending if I were in a position of teaching advanced students in upper level mathematics. The need to ease students into the material and reduce anxiety might be completely unnecessary.
I really love what I do, and I've noticed that it shows in the classroom. Students can tell if their teacher cares about their education and future. I've realized that being early and staying organized makes a big difference, helping students feel more at ease with their learning. When I'm prepared and show I’m invested in their success, it creates a supportive vibe that makes them more comfortable and engaged.
Discussion Post: Reflection on Pedagogy and Instructional Practice
This module has deepened my understanding of pedagogy and its powerful influence on learning. Through reflection, I began to see how the teaching styles of my past instructors have shaped the kind of instructor I am today. Some were inspiring and engaging, while others revealed approaches I now recognize as less effective. This reflection helped me identify both strengths and areas for growth in my own teaching.
One of the most impactful parts of this module was the focus on classroom preparation and the mindset of an instructor. These questions encouraged me to think critically about my habits and assumptions. I realized that some of my routines—though familiar—may not be serving my students as well as they could. Recognizing these habits is the first step, and I’m committed to making conscious, consistent efforts to improve.
One practical change I’m excited to implement is color-coordinating handouts. I believe this small shift will make materials more engaging and memorable for students, especially compared to the traditional black-and-white handouts that often go unnoticed or get lost. It’s a simple strategy, but one that aligns with my goal of creating a more dynamic and student-centered classroom.
Overall, this module has been both eye-opening and motivating. I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned and continuing to grow as an educator.
Instructor Styles; Instructional methods... interesting... a classroom is very different from Navy On the Job Training
Having Field Trip Observation sheets is something that i will implement in upcoming semesters.
Your assessment of yourself is as important as your assessment of your students.
Being prepared and how teaching values affects students! Have different color handouts to keep students engaged
Being prepared and organized is important, and learning about the students individually.
I can show the students that I am a well prepared instructor by having tools and materials ready for use.
I like the Idea of having color code print out papers. Also, preparation is the key for many factors which can lead to student success.
Organization and preparation is important! We've got this first time CTE instructors!
If I don't have something for them, they will have something for me.
It is very vital to student success that the instructor strives to be organized and prepared.
As a new instructor, I have been able to observe one of the other instructors and pick her brain. It has been great for me to take notes and allow me to develop my own skills as a new instructor. I have had a lot of great tips from this course and from my colleague on how to stay organize and creating a fun learning environment for the students to get them excited about their future careers.
Good preparation is the key for good instruction.
It is crucial to set yourself, your classroom, and planned activities to show the students how to be successful and productive. The students will mimic your behaviors, good or bad. And remember, first impressions are important.
I like the idea of keeping a journal of how to improve lecture or lab to become an IDE
Research has shown that an instructor's personality can have a major impact on the retention and progression of student learners. As an instructor, you need to be aware of how your personality impacts students. Being able to identify personality strengths so they can be made a part of your professional development. Students will be drawn to you as a instructor if you also display interest in them and getting to know them. But it is also important to draw boundaries between you as a student. You are not their friend, but their mentor and instructor.
Being on time, organized and having materials ready to present helps immensely in the direction the class flows. I have learned in this module that taking necessary "pauses" are vital in not only the attention of the students but also noticing my own areas of teaching that may need some extra work.
Being super prepared makes you confident also.
