It is important to arrive in appropriate clothing that an adult student would wear at the completion of their program.

I am a first time instructor, and have two classes I am currently teaching. I find my two classes are like night and day... the younger class constantly test me, while my other, more advanced class goes with the flow of class, and do not challenge me. I do not come into the class room demanding respoect, I do not throw my "authority" around, and I treat everyone fairly. I discuss with them why they lost points, and am open for a discussion about a varying answer. About half of the class constantly whine about the homework assignments, quizes and lab work, while the other half does really well, and completes the work. I have asked other instructors if I am being too demanding, and they all feel that I am just being tested. That the curriculum is within what is fair to expect of the class. How can I unite the class?

I find that keeping the class content and class flow varied & fun keeps both the students & instructor from being board & creates an environment that all want to be a part of. Sort of a, "What's going to happen today?" anticipation.

Ice breakers are a fun way to lessen the initial stress component of the first class meeting and gives way to all involved to be themselves, relax & see a glimpse of who the class participants are.

Being organized in your planning helps to keep the instructor's focus on what elements are needed in the course and how those elements will be delivered. A disorganized planner is evident to their students as is an organized one. It sets the tone.

Within the teaching realm, the art of caring needs to be present. When an individual believes and feels the instructor cares for them they can feel motivated to learn.

Learner, Facilitator,Teacher

Should LD students be exempt form exams?

Do ice breakers really help motivate students?

Is good teaching to have all students report from their group?

Is it okay to sit while lecturing to the class?

keeping the students involved will give a better since of accomplishment

is it easier to make different tests for different learing types?

Are pop quizzes good?

How loud should one be in instructor setting?

i think that there may be a fifth style of learning. audio/visual. any other thoughts on this topic??

I had a student with Dyslexia in my Speech class. She used Self-Advocacy by informing me of her disability the first day of the course. I lectured more than usual in this course and the speeches required verbal, not reading skills. She did wonderful in my class.

Many students have varying learning styles which sadly classifies them as learning disabled. I have found that teaching a hands on approach with lots of visual and aditory aids resonates well with the students.

I agree that an instructor is most successfull if he/she creates an environment where students feel safe to ask questions and positive discussion is facilitated by sking open ended questions. I have encountered some students who have very negative attitudes and often feel that it is difficult to stay on track and redirect when confronted with sarcasm and negativity. What other strategies can be used to manage the classroom, and guard against negativity, in addition to addressing concerns with students one on one?

The classes that I teach are mostly studio (design) lab classes and the students are involved in individual projects. Most of the questions are related to individual projects. Redirection about the question to get them to look at the design process and come up with the answer themselves seems to work best. If it is applicable to all the students - I do what I call a teachable moment and involve all of the students in the process.