Tricia Stobbs

Discussion Comment

One thing that I like to do in class is to spend the first 20 minutes of the very first class going over my expectations for the class. My expectations are simple: come to class, do the work, participate and ask for help when you need it. I also ask my students to tell me what they expect from me. I write those things down and make them the rules for the class. The worst thing to do is to "talk down" to adult learners.

Tricia Stobbs

Discussion Comment

Oh the variety!

I used to teach in the veterinary technology program for the school I work for and found it difficult to incorporate different styles of learning because the very nature of the class is demo/hands-on. In order to cover different learning styles, I make sure to mix up my styles with each class. I lecture, have hands on sections and do group activities. Most of my students were very hands on, so lecturing really bored the students. I tried to spice up the lectures by adding more visually appealing things, by using videos and real pictures to illustrate parts of the… >>>

Tricia Stobbs

Discussion Comment

How can students use the information in the real world?

I try and find ways to show my students how they will use the information I am presenting when they are done with school. Sometimes students roll their eyes at things, when this happens I tell them about a personal experience with the topic we are discussing. I have had graduates come back after they have been out in the real world and tell me how my personal stories helped them to deal with situations more clearly.

Tricia Stobbs

Discussion Comment

First Day Jitters

For the first day of class I try and dress professionally, but I don't like to look too intimidating. Most students are nervous enough during the first day of class, they don't need to see a big scary instructor in front of them too. During the first day of class I share something about myself and then ask each student to share something too. I usually do an icebreaker before diving into the workings of the course. This helps to introduce students to each other and see who they can relate to.

Tricia Stobbs

Discussion Comment

Skill

In my teaching I try to list things in the course addendum that will help students to be able to utilize their skills to their full potential. I also talk about having confidence in the classroom and assign project for the students to boost confidence.