Anita Levy

I learned that there are many ways to encourage and motivate students with learning disabilities. We may need to make certain changes to our processes, but not because the students with disabilities are less capable, only that they may need some different tools or techniques to ensure their success.

Having lived in another country and learning a new language, I definitely understand the barriers that student may face. I really appreciate the techniques discussed here to help ensure student success.

I learned that keeping group sizes to 6-8 people is advisable. I am most interested in the self evaluation of group assignments since that would really empower the group to go for exactly the result they want.

There are many techniques to teach while being more than just a droning voice. I will be most effective by using real world examples to help illustrate a point combined with being lively while speaking.

I learned that if I am prepared for class, and to get to know them then it helps to show the students that they are important to me. I learned that if I break the material into small sections at a time, it is more digestible. And to try to teach to different styles of learning to be sure all students can be given the opportunity to learn.And finally, offering varied modes of learning will keep the students engaged and excited. 

I learned that taking the time for introductions does so much more than just learn each others names. It can set the stage for the success of the class by being genuine with the students.

Proper planning will ensure both my success as well as the success of the students.

I learned that professionalism is required at all times. This in addition to respectful communication are the tools to give credibility to individuals that you are someone that they can learn from. Also it serves as an opportunity to lead by example. When it comes to the topic you are teaching, confidence combined with a bit of vulnerability will go a long way to impressing to the students that you love the topic, and that you still understand that we are never done learning.

I learned that even in an online environment it is important to recognize different learning/personality styles.  Understanding this helps me to help address different potential student issues.  Being familiar with my institutions policies and procedures will give me a great foundation on how to manage any problems that may arise either due to student learning styles or technical difficulties.

Synchronous discussions are best used in a 1 on 1 setting, ideally in real time. Asynchronous discussions will be far more common, and are the heart of the online class format.