Karen Sharber

I have made it an important part of my instruction to learn the student's names in my class. I feel that this is very important, and it puts a smile on the student's face. It makes the student feel important. I feel that you do have to be professional at all times. One day last semester, I had a student ask me why I ironed my uniform because she never ironed hers. I explained to her about the importance of looking and being a professional. 

It all has to do with respect. If you respect me as the instructor, then I wil respect you as the student. This means that when I am in front of the class lecturing that you are not being disruptive or disrespectful. And, when you are speaking or representing your point of view, that I am respectful of you. I feel that it is very rude when another student is having a private conversation with their friend while another student is trying to answer a question or the instructor is speaking in class. But, in addition, I feel that you… >>>

The content for this module is so true. I have dealt with those students that think they are getting over on the new instructor. But, they forget that some of us have been around and can read individuals. I can tell when someone is sincere or just wanting something. I just smile and thank them for their kind words. 

If you take the time to explain why an assignment is to be done, then, students are more willing to ensure that it is done & done correctly.

With this module, I learned that you really have to know what it is that you want to measure when deciding what type of test and the questions for the test. I had never really looked at it that way. Also, learning objectives, which were discussed in our beginning lessons,  have to be considered when coming up with questions for your test. This is just not an easy task!

This information is beneficial because it all keeps reminding me of the importance of knowing my students. We assume that all students have developed soft skills but in reality not everyone has. Not all students learn these behaviors at home. So, you may have to implement these soft skills into your instruction as well. 

A phrase was used that I always tell my students. That there are no stupid questions. And, I try to encourage my students to ask questions during class. 

I was aware that not all students process and learn information the same way, so now I have a task of implementing these different learning styles into the classroom setting. I do feel that in my classroom setting that I am taking this into consideration, but I still need to work on it!

I was interested in the information about Purpose Games. I intend to research this and possibly implement into my lectures this spring. 

I learned about numerous course management tools that I intend to look into to help with my instruction. I really like free options!