Michael Parrott

I found this block of instruction a refresher for activities I'm already implementing for a technology perspective in my course. I did appreciate the four parts of a plan discussed and will more effectively use the information in future endeavors.

I didn't realize the importance placed on remaining relevant concerning technological advancements and utilization in teaching. I'm used to the dry erase board, likely because I'm more visual learner, which I value over videos and other technology medians. 

I've used objectives and built course themes that feed off the objectives in order to constantly reiterate the importance of the the content to the objectives. 

The lesson plan format is useful and will help provide the key points and flow for each block of instruction.

I found the topic about time, relevant. The compression factor in teaching was an example of what often times happens in reverse, instead of having to much time, often times the need to condense the class into a shorter block of time occurs. Planning for situations like these and knowing the key pieces of information that need to be conveyed is vital.

I found the lectures portion of this instruction very helpful. I will adjust some of my course's expository and interactive lectures to problem-solving and case study lecture formats to increase class participation and get away from power point slides. 

I found some of the approaches and techniques for getting to know the class (students) and be able to discuss the requirements of the course in different manners helpful. I'll be able to incorporate the different methods into future courses. 

In preparation for classes, looking at the class roster to ensure pronunciation of names is correct is important. I would also suggest if a pre-requisitie (DL) portion is done, review student assignment responses in order to identify what the level of the students are at entering the course in order to ensure content is at the appropriate audience level. Always be in the class before the students. 

The three major roles instructors play in the education process of students reiterated the importance of being professional and capable of motivating students to learn and grow in their knowledge and understanding of course content. Traits I've used throughout my military career and will now use as an adult educator.

After going through the course materials, I found the explanations on formative and summative tests very helpful. I have taken many tests, but understanding the types of tests and why they're used is extremely helpful in updating my course.