Theresa Schmitt, M.Ed.

Arthur, Good point. Asking students to engage with the online content and interact with each other outside of class time may at first appear daunting to the students. By introducing the platform in a non-threatening way, you are presenting blended learning in a non-threatening way. Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt

Deborah, Asking your children for assistance is fantastic. I am sure it acts as a bonding experience and they can provide feedback on what they find captivating about your course materials. Thank you for sharing! Yours in learning, Theresa Schmitt

Laura, It sounds as if you have fully embraced the benefits various forms of technology and media can bring into a classroom. Any tutorials and samples you would like to share with the group would be appreciated! Yours in learning, Theresa Schmitt

Kimberly, Staying in touch with graduates and sharing information is a fantastic use of Facebook! I am happy to hear this has been a successful joint venture for you and your former students. Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt

Kimberly, I would suggest looking for inspiration on the various sites mentioned in the 'Teaching with Technology' section of this course. Although many sites lean towards K-12, there are some fantastic resources and links to educational videos and lesson plans that encourage group learning. Your in learning, Theresa Schmitt

Cynthia, I agree, many do become disinterested when viewing a series of facts presented in a PowerPoint. I find students really enjoy creating presentations on a give subject, placing them into the role of instructor. This is a great way for me to assess if they understand the concepts as well. Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt

Sherry, I think this would be an excellent experience for your students. Understanding how algebra is actually applied in-field is crucial so it is not all about memorization- it makes the experience more meaningful. I live in Florida and the public schools are adopting common core (https://www.fldoe.org/schools/ccc.asp). Through these new standards, students will be doing just as you discuss here so they understand the why behind the how. The teachers I know are very positive when discussing these new initiatives, embracing a renewed focus on comprehension. Wishing you success with introducing teleconferencing into your curriculum. Theresa Schmitt

Nancy, I also rely heavily on the portal when it comes to communicating with students and uploading course content, such as rubrics, project specs, lecture notes, etc.. I also find it difficult to remember what teaching was like before this technology existed! Technology definitely keeps me organized and the students have constant access to materials that help them succeed. Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt

Cynthia, The conference you attended sounds amazing, and fantastic the organizers chose not charge educators! Thank you for sharing your experience. I found a link to the conference website below for others who may want to attend next year: http://healthysimulation.com/2880/cae-healthcares-world-hpsn-conference/ Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt

Sherry, How I wish this technology existed while I was an undergrad and struggled with math! Adaptive solutions for math, reading and English have become customary in high schools and institutions of higher learning, and for good reason- it works. Below is a link that leads to a brief overview on the subject with additional link for more in-depth information for those not familiar with the technology: https://www.edsurge.com/adaptive-learning Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt