Tremayne Simpson

Pamela, I agree that it is important to learn about the student characteristics, during the first day of class. In addition, their peers are able to learn about their characteristics as well, which can positively impact the classroom environment. Tremayne Simpson

Beth, Inquiring about the students' backgrounds, is a great way to "break the ice" and to get an idea of their prior learning. As for diagnostic or pre-tests, I have found that creating exams that have "open-ended" or "essay-style" questions are effective, for a thorough, assessment of the student subject-matter knowledge. Tremayne Simpson

Samuel, I agree. In addition, the lesson plans and course content must be in alignment with the learning objectives, in order to provide a "well rounded" learning experience for the student. Tremayne Simpson

Kimberlee, I like the idea of having midterm faculty evaluations, because it gives the instructor an opportunity to make immediate improvements, if necessary. Overall, I think it would be more effective, for there to be both midterm and end of course evaluations available for students. Tremayne Simpson

Jamie, Do you have any flexibility, in regards to revising the provided lesson plans? Tremayne Simpson

Samuel, Excellent point. Students may have a preferred learning style, however they have an ability to accomodate the additional styles that may be presented to them. This adaptation, primarily depends on the diversity of the instructional approach. If an instructor is willing to try several innovative methods of instruction, the student will have an opportunity to explore different learning styles. Tremayne Simpson

Dr. Enrique, I have also used this method, with PowerPoint presentations. It is a great way to implement discussion during the lecture and it gives the instructor an opportunity to "check-in" with student comprehension. Students seem to become preoccupied with trying to "take notes" from the PowerPoint slides and it is important to give them an opportunity to discuss the learned material. Tremayne Simpson

Brenda, Many instructors will agree that we all have had students with "procrastination" issues. I agree with provided more "in class" activities, in order to engage the students. However, it is important to continue to provide "outside of class" projects, which will enable students to improve their time management skills, in preparation for their future career. Tremayne Simpson

Peter, What types of activities have you implemented, in order to assess student knowledge, early on in the course? Tremayne Simpson

Patricia, I agree. Learning objectives are most effective, when they are specific and the desired outcomes are clearly defined. If they are vague, it is difficult to measure/assess student achievement. Tremayne Simpson