Is there another way to explain the difference between instruction and training.

Is it a good idea for students to evaluate instructor after a few weeks of instructions. In addition, compare final evaluation of instructor after completion of course. This can be used as a learning tool for the instructor.

Many times in school I have seen students going to the dean blaming instructors for poor grades. keeping good records of attendance, progress, participation and other notes will be crucial when defending yourself against students who are set on blaming you for their failure. however use caution not do disclose any information to unauthorized persons. student records are confidential and misuse could have serious consequences.

in the military before we started class the instructor would often show a funny video or an unfortunate video on the topic at hand to gain students attention. By bringing out the emotions such as joy, anger, fear in the learners, they can see a new aspect of the subject at hand. for example, when we learned about improvised explosive devices, we were shown videos of people killed or wounded by these weapons or videos of blowing up washing machines for training. these gave us a better appreciation for the power of explosives far better than a simple lecture with facts and numbers. Granted these are extreme examples I have found none the less that they are effective in gaining attention in the classroom and may be used several times through out the period of instruction to help maintain attention. by switching the videos content from comedy to tragedy or reverse it keeps the students involved as long as they are appropriate for the students age maturity level and content of the course.

Being in the military for 10 years a common form of instruction was lecture with power point as an aid. These classes we ineffective at getting the knowledge needed due to long classes, cluttered slides and a "check in the box" mentality. The instructor teaching the class was often ordered to do so and often was unmotivated therefore reading off the slide in a monotone voice with his back to the class. These classes would go on for hours and once a year, several days are set aside for these periods of instruction which last all day. This resulted in the students becoming more interested in doing literally ANYTHING rather than sit through another minute of the material being presented. Most of what I got out of the classes was learning to spot others sleeping with eyes open. I take this lecture method with the previously described methods of delivery as a perfect example of what not to do

Having handouts and materials ready is crucial. In a lab environment having all necessary chemicals, instruments, or any other materials will show preparedness. I have these items neatly put away to show students that setting up for the project is part of real world expectations. I feel this reduces the "my way or high way" option because students can set up the work stations which will work best for them to be more efficient while still teaching responsibility and accountability if the students do not have everything they need. Is this a logical way of doing things?

Though I have heard about Bloom's Taxonomy seemingly forever, it wasn't until I took this course that I became aware of the impact this concept can have regarding creating clear and concise lesson plan objectives. I look forward to incorporating these techniques.

I try to have former students and professionals come into the classroom as guest speakers. It allows the students to see someone succeed in their field. I have invited former students to discuss the licensing registration process and what it was like taking their licensing boards. The present students are able to see share their worries and ask questions related to this important topic. Robbin

I never liked giving extra credit since it appears to dilute the grading system for the student. I am open to other ideas that might work to change my thoughts.

I have found that a high percentage of night students have families and also work full time. How successful is the use of homework when it just gets done as a 'busy work' assignment?

What is the best media selection used to have the highest impact on extrovert-type students?

What ideas can you share for those of us who teach night classes that would like to include field trips in our course content?

Determine the time limit for make up tests.

In my experience, having extra credit projects readily available for students to voluntarily complete is motivating and keeps them focused on class content.

Determining the reading and math levels of students before beginning classroom instruction is extremely helpful to instructors.

I attempt to create PP presentations to introduce every new topic. They are quick and easy to prepare and students respond well to this visual presentation of material.

I love printing on colored paper and/or with colored ink whenever possible because it really assists students with organization and quickly attracts their attention.

introducing technology to the class room is a fun exciting way to keep student engaged when you are planning on using new support materials. how far would you go in a class setting with new technology?

to be honest this is my first time learning anything about taxonomy of learning. This process of learning will a better understanding to lesson plan construction and preparations. Is knowing taxonomy of learning still relevant for today's learning?

lesson plans give a ready source of information and ideas as you plan for the next time you will teach the course and strive to expand your instructional expertise, but how many lesson plans would be fitting for a subject....?