In this module, I learned the importance of promoting an active learning environment for my students. They need to understand that the learning method might be different what they are used to, but the end result is going to be the same. It is important for the instructor to be motivated so that the motivation carries over to the students and the learning goals are successfully met.
Being able to transition and have a back up plan is important. To always be ready for error.
I have learned that lecture in short 15 minute intervals is pretty effective and then allowing them to apply what was just went over.
Keep updated on technology and access for students. Be creative in providing activities.
Loved reading that by incorporating active learning techniques that it can offer students additional opportunities to build and test their knowledge.
Instructors should effectively communicate the expectations of active learning to prepare their students for the workload. According to the text, some students do not initially see the value of active learning and are expecting a more transactional lecture-based learning environment.
On the first day of my class, I like to discuss all of the projects that we will complete by the end of the class. This provides me with the opportunity to discuss why we're completing the projects. My game audio course is intended to give the student the starting pieces of their own digital portfolio that they would one day show potential employers. By explaining that a portfolio is something that everyone in the industry maintains when looking for jobs, they can understand that if they put in the effort they will learn the skills they need for the job and leave with content that they can add to their own professional portfolio. I believe this effectively reduces their possible negative perception of the teaching style.
I was happy to see the bit about creating a video to introduce the expectations of students in an active learning activity. I will need to implement that, so I will be reviewing those parts of this course that give suggestions to set students up for success in active learning activities.
Students need to self reflect and it is important for instructors to encourage students to engage in course content.
Instructor should also make a video at the start of course letting students know and understanding the expectations. Some students believe online is an easier alternative to face to face.
Active learning takes more time to implement and evaluate..it requires top-tier tech support, and commitment by the students and instructor to trust the process and watch it transform the classroom.
What stood out to me was the idea of active learning and critical thinking skills are not woven into standardized testing. Also the importance of making technology equitable.
I have had my share of tech failing at the wrong time. The challenge is to be prepared for each week.
Both students and instructors can come to the active learning environment with biases that present a barrier to learning. Teachers may feel students aren't up to the task of the student-centered approach, and students may feel that teachers using this method aren't really performing the task of instruction.
A misconception of active learning is that it may be less work for an instructor who has previously used the lecture format. In my experience, creating and facilitating active learning often requires more work and flexibility in the actual class session. There is a certain loss of control on the part of the instructor when the student is able to bring their own perspective and experience to the material and this can be scary for instructors who are new to this model. I have found it much more rewarding for both myself and the students, however, when we as instructors are willing to put in the work to adapt our session to this format.
It can be challenging to teaching online courses due to the nature of student centered learning. Meaning, students can have an attitude because they feel like they are teaching themselves and that is not what they "think" they want.
The limitations of active learning boil down to by-in. Both the instructor and the students have to by-in the process for it to be successful. Some instructors have trouble letting go of the "control" they have over students' learning. Some students believe that the instructor isn't "teaching" them when they are required to guide their own learning. I have found that explaining to students the science of why we do the activities and discussions has helped my students by-in to the things we do both in class and online.
The use of technology must be equitable. All students need to have quality access to technologies used in an online classroom. They also need to understand at the strat of the course how much time will need to be spent on assignments and studying. Students must take responsibility for their own learning.
I learned the importance of an online learning platform that runs smoothly so that the students can have an organized and uninterrupted learning experience.
Online learning has inspired us to rethink traditional lecturing structures and come up with creative ways of facilitating learning in a virtual environment. This is the future of learning and being adaptable is important for success.
Comment on Itzel Gutierrez's post: This is so true!! I am tech challenged and I have struggled with this aspect of teaching. The training for instructors just is not there and I have had to teach myself or reach out to coworkers for help and guidance!! Sad, but sometimes students become my teacher when it comes to tech issues!
I believe in creativity and inclusive, I have come to learn students fully participate when they fell responsible a a team player in the class.
