I like the REFOCUS concept because it does happen that you find yourself feeling like you or your class has 'stalled' and you really do need to find a way to refocus.
I've learned a lot through this section however, REFOCUS, has been the method that I am most grateful for. I, like many other instructors, find that it is easy to become overburdened by the stressors inside and outside the classroom. Having a game plan like the one listed in the brief section, is exactly the remedy we need to stay ahead of the game. Crisis situations would be a fun exercise to have in the classroom and would certainly lift the mundanity of digging through the code. Furthermore, the triage tip is something I'll take with me to my grave. It is easy for me to get wrapped up in those students who need the most work, so much so that I'll completely overlook the many treatable issues that exist inside the classroom. By using REFOCUS, I plan to deliver better instruction and to return to the classroom refreshed.
I learned a lot of information about engaging students. I appreciated the refocus section and will be sure to remind my students about halfway through of how far they have come by asking them to share.
Using a diverse array of tactics and formats to stimulate the classroom to achieve engagement starts with the instructors approach. Gaging the group of students and applying the correct techniques will better enhance the learning environment.
Some of these examples do not really apply to the way that I will be giving instruction.
Respect role of management, respect students, commit to students learning and development. Instructor attitude affects student learning.
It's ok not to always have the answer to a question.
Learnt how to keep students engaged and on track during the course.
Engaged and focused with a touch of refocus when necessary. Its always been about keeping the students engaged and on task. This has been the reminder of that.
I think the Refocus tool will be very beneficial for me
If I am not excited and enthusiastic about the course, my students won't be either.
Allow students a chance to tell a story, but don't let it throw off your entire lesson plan for the day.
The importance of building rapport with the students, and how to create a trustful relationship to keep them motivated, and engaged.
Build rapport, engage students, help them to want to participate. different strategies in instruction can be a good thing so that it doesn't become mundane.
Vary teaching styles to keep students engaged
Engagement is key, especially mid-semester when teachers and students tend to lose steam. It is important to identify this and have the students recommit to their learning. Also, adding variety to instruction will support student engagement.
It is important to be mindful of the energy I bring to the classroom as that will dictate how the students feel about the class going forward, it will influence their behavior in class, and also impact how committed they are to completing their coursework.
REFOCUS!
Working memory stores info and retrieves when needed.
This segment shows that both the students and the teachers can lose focus during certain segments of the class. Learning how to adapt and shift "gears" when this occurs is essential. Being able to REFOCUS your students and yourself will continue the path for everyone to stay engaged and be retained in both teaching and learning.
I like the idea of the crisis game. I will try this for sure :)
