Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

I just ran across an interesting article on college kids and sleep texting. I wanted to post the link. http://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-sleep-texting-2013-8

Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

The effect of technology on our brains

This section mention that the brains of generation Y are the same as previous generations, that actually is not the case. Research actually shows that technology is physically changing our brains. "The current explosion of digital technology not only is changing the way we live and communicate but also is rapidly and profoundly altering our brains. Daily exposure to high technologyÃ¢â‚¬â€computers, smart phones, video games, search engines such as Google and YahooÃ¢â‚¬â€stimulates brain cell alteration and neurotransmitter release, gradually strengthening new neural pathways in our brains while weakening old ones. Because of the current technological revolution, our brains are evolving… >>>

Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

foreign language

Reading the information on Generation Y leaves me wondering why a foreign language isn't a requirement at career colleges. I work at two institutions and neither of them offer foreign language courses. I feel this is a key skill for students to acquire with the changing dynamics of our nation. Especially for those entering the medical field and serving a diverse population. In a typical class, I usually have 3-5 that are bilingual while the rest are mono-lingual.

Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

Intrinsic vs extrinsic- good job

I don't understand how wanting to get a good job is listed just as extrinsic, yes there is a paycheck involved, however, most people work for reasons other than just receiving a paycheck e.g. helping others, feeling productive, keeping busy etc.

Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

Motivating students using motivational interviewing

I teach psychology and implement motivational interviewing which is a counseling technique with my students. I have them set a goal for themselves at the beginning of class as to the grade they want to receive and have them brainstorm ideas on how they can receive that grade. They also rate their level of motivation and come up with a plan on how to increase that motivation. Mid-term grade time is a good time for them to re-access their motivation as well as whether they are on target to achieve that goal. They also do a change plan around mid-semester… >>>

Michelle Alvarez

Discussion Comment

How to encourage Emotional Intelligence skills in students

I teach Psychology and have noticed that many of my students lack emotional intelligence skills. This topic is even briefly lectured on, but the mindset of the students doesn't seem to change from the beginning to the end of the course. I know that the students would be more successful throughout their program of study and in the work place if they would actually recognize their deficit and practice using emotional intelligence. Any ideas?