I make notes about how successful a teaching technique worked and then I might use it again or "I might throw it out."
Being a newer instructor, one of the things I do is "reading" my students during class. If they don't seem interested or aren't giving much feedback, I know I should enhance how I am presenting material to them.
Hi Jennifer,
I really like your professional development plan in relation to self-assessment. This is something that we all need to be doing. This is how we can bring changes to our classes immediately while the course is still underway. This benefits both the current and future students as a result.
Gary
like to incorporate allot of visual aids and hands on. Group participation also
Student feed back, Cross training, 360 degree evaluations with other instructors .
I consistently attempt to talk slowly and explain everything I expect from my students every class. I teach only lab classes. Speaking slowly and explaining completely are more important to them than anything.
Although there are end of session surveys that students complete, the response rate is low. So, I tend to utilize a self-assessment. For example, is there much discussion in the classroom itself? If not, what am I doing (or not doing!) that might impact that. Are my topics engaging? Am I taking that important step of showing the real world application? I find that student involvement is higher when I take the topic into the realm of real world issues. When I show enthusiasm for the concepts, and show excitement for their application to the real world, it sparks a positive reaction from the students. Asking for examples from the students and encouraging them to share experiences adds to the collaborative feel of the classroom and increases learning. In sessions where I am not seeing as much discussion, it leads me to examine my style of instruction and consider what might need to be tweaked for the next session.
Be more organized and do more visual style of teaching.
I agree with the use of surveys. I have always taught a variety of subjects and I always have asked my classes at the end of the sessions what they would do to improve things for the next class. As an instructor you should keep the feedback time with the students on a positive level but be open to constructive critcism. Kevin Jackson
Hi Mike,
Good example of how one type of training prepares you for success in another field. Effective communication is what teaching is all about and the more effective we are the more effective our instruction will be.
Gary
I have taken courses on public speaking which have helped me to explain lessons in a more coherent fashion
Hi Asma,
Good point about being willing to accept feedback and then build on the suggestions that are made. This is where instructional improvement comes from.
Gary
Know one's self to start with. You know your strength and you know what areas you will need more help.
Find avenues that will help you improve your style. Example; if you are not technology savy, find opportuinties that will focus on using technology in the classroom.
Learning is a life journey so do not be hard on yourself.
To be humbel and open to feedback is crucial in improving one's instructional style. Learning what works best for students comes from the daily interaction with them in and out of the classroom, their feedback, test scores, and their overall satisfaction with the material taught.
Hi Chad,
This is essential for professional development to continue. By using all the feedback that you receive you will continue to expand your abilities and expertise.
Gary
using power poit presentation,on line sources to further develop my teaching style.
I always feel it is best to look at each class and improve from the last by course surveys etc...
I look at all the different ways to add fun, motivate and add variety to enhance student learning.
I agree Louis, a mentor is very important. I find my students ask numerous questions regarding my experience and history. They enjoy hearing about "real-life" situations, how I handled them and learned from them.
I try to keep up with current research and follow market trends. I belong to related professional organizations and attend conferences. I also try to take additional classes and workshops when time and money permit.
Hi Earle,
What are some strategies that you use to expand your professional expertise?
Gary
