Joseph Bazan

Discussion Comment

The most effective way to maximize student learning and retention and further application is to break materials down into elements, what this module called "bite-sized chunks." Students are better able to process and understand the materials then use apply them to real-world applications both inside and outside the classroom. Is there a more effective means of managing materials or learning materials? Breaking down materials into elements lends itself well to all of the basic learner methods: literary, visual, tactile, etc.

Joseph Bazan

Discussion Comment

Nontraditional Learners vs. Traditional Learners

I find nontraditional adult learners to be more motivated to succeed and to accept challenges than traditional students. I also find that they will question rules and assignments less than the younger students. I find that nontraditional students do not give up as easily as traditional students. Younger students often have not been challenged to think critically. Such a challenge tends to be perceived as "being picked on." I have found that older students tend to work through their frustrations much better than younger students. A supportive, well-structured lesson plan and classroom is essential for all students' success. I think… >>>

Joseph Bazan

Discussion Comment

The terms, they are a'changin'

After seven years of teaching, I find that I am a completely different instructor from what I was when I started. Though that sounds obvious, I also see where my instructional methods still change from term to term. No two terms of the same course are identical. No two terms are identical based on the challenges of previous terms. Ultimately, I find that the shorter lectures followed by immediate hands-on work - in my profession that means legal drafting of court-ready documents - appears to be the most effective method of instruction. However, I find that it is difficult to… >>>

Joseph Bazan

Discussion Comment

Adopting coursework to employers' expectations

I found several discussions in this area interesting, especially the discussions about grading to employer's expectations and simplifying course content. I have found it useful to talk to employers to reinforce techniques and projects and development of skill sets in the classroom. It has been my observation that students "buy into" the employment expectations almost all the time. Developing projects and activities and assessments that develop and sharpen those skills is the key to a successful classroom.