Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

I usually use multiple choice since I want students will use the concepts of biology to better understand what they learn in their vet classes. They don't necessarily need to remember every detail just general concepts. Maybe their are better ways of doing this?

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

formative assessments

I usually use either a hands-on lab/activity or question the students to determine if they understood what I just talked about. It also gets them to look through the notes, recall inforamtion and realize that everything they need to know is right at their finger tips if they don't recall the information.

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

Using learning styles you are not as comfortable with.

I have found that it is a major challenge to incorporate the learning styles that I do not learn best from myself. I have a fear that students are thinking the same thing I would if I were in their shoes (which is not positive). However, after stepping outside of the box a few times it has become more and more comfortable and I have really improved how I deliver the materials in this way (as evidenced by course evals).

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

body language

I have found that body language is a huge indicator of what is going on with the student. It is no big surprise that if a student seems to be zoning they will be unable to provide a response to your questions. I would like to know any ideas of how to bring them back into the discussion (many times it is their third class of the day and they are tired). Unfortunately, what I do doesn't always bring them back into the discussion- it has to be their effort as well.

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

Challenging students to take ownership for their learning

I use many of the strategies in this module and I also encourage students to take ownership for their own learning. They need to do some homework (reasonable quantities)and study what they learned in class outside of class. A good employee will spend some time outside of their job keeping current in their field.

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

simple demonstrations can bridge the gap

I am a biology instructor on a low budget but I have found that the simplest experiments can make as much of an impact on student learning and engagement as a large and involved experiment. Even things like observing diffusion in a cup or dropping water onto wax paper and adding soap is a great way to revisit everyday experiences in light of what they have just learned.

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

asking student questions

I usually quiz my students about every 20-30 minutes or after we have covered a difficult topic. Oftentimes students feel embarrassed when they are called on so I always assure them that if they don't know the answer they can say "pass" or I can ask someone else. I will ask them questions again in the same nonthreatening way to show them that I have confidence that they have the knowledge. This seems to work and students don't seem to be nervous or embarassed because of the way I present it.

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

Trying something new

When I was in that situation I had the students do more. I gave them topics to research that pertained to the course material and had them give mini-presentations. I have also had debates/panel discussions and I gave them computer time to research. The next time I teach the class I am more knowledgeable. In my experience, students enjoy the debates/discussions so much they don't realize that you are doing it because you don't have time to prepare. Also, I talk a lot about what I know best and have the students do the work on the topics I am… >>>

Heidi Nerud

Discussion Comment

Trying something new

I have found it very helpful to try something new sometimes (not all of the time)! I base some of the things that I try on student complaints or requests. I know that it is good to be who you are but I like to journey outside my comfort zone sometimes. Sometimes it improves who I am.