A Randolph

Discussion

visual aides

I find models very effective in small group learning

A Randolph

Discussion

generational learning

This is great infomation as to how to incorporate my Baby Boomer educational learning style to current Gen Y technology learning.

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Mix it up.

Having different types of testing in one test keeps it interesting for the students. It's good to have a couple completion tests, multiple choice and a few T/F. This requires different types of thinking processes from the students. Essay questions are still the best test of a student's progress.

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Students as "patients"

A good way to check the "real world" skills students is to pair them up with another student for role playing. One student plays the role of patient while the other is the hygienist. The "patient" can ask a question and the hygiene student can demonstrate their knowledge (and communicative skills) by answering the patient's question(s). This gives the students a feel of what they'll do once they're working in a practice.

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Positive reinforcement

If a weaker student doesn't get any positive feedback on an answer they've given, they're far less likely to speak up in the future. Sometimes, if a student has given an incorrect answer to a question, you can get others in the class involved by asking another student to help the first one. This keeps the students involved and gives positive reinforcement to both students. Confidence is key for effective teaching and learning. Peer involvement can, at times, be more effective than just the teacher asking a question. Students can ask each other questions; this boosts confidence for both and… >>>

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Student groups / Tactile

In my experience, study groups are very effective because they allow students to mingle and discuss the work they've been given with their peers. This allows all of the students to round out their learning styles as they work together. Tactile exercises are important because they allow the students to be both comfortable and proficient at using the instruments they'll use daily as a hygienist. After gaining all of knowledge they'll need, correct and effective usage of the instruments is the second most aspect of the job.

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Stress!!!

I never really thought about the noise level at work as a stressor, but now that I think about it, it makes sense. I love my coffee, but I've cut back drinking it past about 4:00pm so it doesn't interfere with my sleep. Sleep is the closest thing I get to a vacation! As a former CPR instructor, I laughed at the part about the dummies being a distraction--they do look goofy. Usually when I try to meditate, I just end up falling asleep. I'm getting better at taking 10 deep breaths when I start to feel overloaded. Try it,… >>>

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Taking care of my kids.

One big source of stress is making sure I'm there for my kids. I helped my son rebuild his condo after the flood in Boulder and I have a 22-year-old daughter who is a cancer survivor so, of course, her health is always on my mind. Nobody likes to commute and I've even toyed with the idea of taking the bus so I can sit back and read to and from work. I try to take a long walk three times a week as I've found it helpful with relieving stress and stiff muscles.

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Timesavers!

I'm always trying to improve my grading time so the "50%" idea is truly helpful. While I like multiple choice and T/F quizzes, I rely on essays to judge my student's grasp of the subject we're studying. I never liked them in college, but now I understand why they made us do them! Mobile devices are cropping up in every facet of life; does anyone have a good "one-stop shop" to get up to speed with these gadgets?

A Randolph

Discussion Comment

Dental office time vs. classroom time

This course has been helpful to me because as a practicing hygienist, my time was largely controlled by the office scheduler. There were times during the day which I used for ongoing tasks, i.e. stocking my supplies and data entry. As an instructor, I'm in control of my schedule and must streamline my activities to use my time to its best. Does anyone have any "tricks of the trade" to share with me?