From this course and forum, I was able to better understand the importance of learning types and styles. As an instructor seeks to understand the specifics of today's classroom based on a number of factors including the student's age, social situation, desire to learn and previous experience in the field of study.
Comment on Gerald Dyer's post: Very well said my sentiments exactly!!👌🏽
Comment on Chris Dube's post:Great point I agree
This section helped to solidify my understanding of the variety of journeys that students are on when it comes to attending college. It was helpful to refresh on seeing each student as an individual.
It takes insight to be a great instructor. Understanding the nuances of the student and also their age has a lot to do with it. The younger they are in Vocational training the more used to following rules in school, however; older adults want to get in train and get out so they can take these new skill sets to a new vocation.
Classroom aids and equipment are essential .
Understanding the subject matter is infectious in the classroom. When the student knows that the instructor knows what they are talking about, it becomes that much more convincing.
Student retention starts with a solid foundation with the student. Success begins with the students ability and willingness to learn. Teaching can further the students success by using informative teaching and instruction methods . Maintaining an interesting classroom can make or break the learning environment .
To this point I feel this course enables those participating (us) that every student regardless of age or reason for attending a class has their own personal reasons for being in that class. Our jobs as faculty is to recognize those motivators and use them to connect and enhance their learning experience. Each student learns differently, and we need to understand their method and utilize our teaching skill sets to help them grow.
It is important to understand individual needs and goals. I plan to encourage and support my students through whatever challenges they face to achieve their goals. I found the course very helpful.
I have learned the importance of connecting with your students to best be able to aid in there learning.
Being a good teacher is first and foremost about listening.
Talking directly to students can help better know what assistance and instructional support they need.
Allowing students an opportunity to feel comfortable and accepted in their program opens doors for better learning
Put yourself in your students shoes when it comes to viewing the classroom. There may be a wide variety of age groups with the class.
This Course has taught me that understanding students real life situations will help me in educating them.
This section brought home the need to get to know each student and their needs on an individual basis. This will help enhance their learning experience and help to make me a better instructor.
I have learned about how to discuss more with students. Being able to discuss more with students allows the students to feel like they are being heard. That we are here to help them and in some cases, there may be times that we can't like in the "Impersonal Problems." However, we as instructors need to help figure out solutions or know already the solution at hand for those particular problems.
The different type of learning expectations depends on the type of student. In my job, I will have more non-traditional students however if I do have one or two that fit the more traditional setting, I will need to make sure they do not get lost in the crowd.
College students need to know that they are important to their instructor. They need to know that their instructors understand their situations. They need praise for positives (scores, behavior, learning a new skill, making progress in a difficult area). They need to know that they will be heard, and their concerns accepted. They need to know that their reasons for being in class are respected. They need to know what their options are when life "jumps up and slaps then in the face," as I say. Understanding and compassion for the students can be given while still remaining professional. I share several personal things about my life when I introduce myself to my students, this helps them to know that I have been where they are.
