Robyn Roth

This module has been quite informative about the role of the Title IX coordinator. The role of the Title IX Coordinator is to be visible to all employees and students to provide training, conduct climate surveys, process requests for confidentiality, maintain records, modify and increase safety measures and policies when needed, and to continually review the effectiveness of these policies on campus. It is an important role to be sure. 

It is critical to motivate students and show enthusiasm in the classroom. Be open and empathetic and do not intimidate or shame students. Give them a positive reason to want to be there and learn. 

Keeping the course interesting and not rote is a definite challenge. Learning to REFOCUS can help in this challenging area of teaching. I will definitely use these strategies in my instruction. 

Being creative and adjusting your teaching style to fit the day is helpful. Sometimes students give telltale signals that they need a break to recharge and refocus and it is important to recognize these moments. 

Understanding where the student is coming from, their unique perspectives and current life situation, is most helpful in establishing rapport and building a cohesive and meaningful learning environment. Understanding the difficulties that may come up, listening and being a neutral party, can direct that student to resources which can help; thereby retaining them in the school and decreasing the rate of attrition. 

Delivering course content that is engaging and interesting for the students to remain focused is key. Setting up lectures (in varying methods and styles) into 15-minute blocks helps to keep attention spans focused. Using an ice breaker or something to grab the student's attention at the beginning of each class is important. I like the idea of handing out 3x5 cards to the students to write their questions down and then collecting them at the end of lecture to answer. I will definitely use this technique. 

The first day of class is all about setting the tone and expectations for the students. It also is an important first step in establishing your role as leader and expert professional of the class. Learning each student's name (and the pronunciation) is key in making the students feel important, but also in getting to know them as individuals. 

Preparation is key to success. Doing the necessary work to prepare for the class and having everything completed. lined up and ready to go is much of the work. By doing this, the instructor is set up for success. I also am reminded to come to class 30 minutes (or more) early to have everything set up and ready to go and able to meet and greet students as they come in. Set the tone, give students clear objectives and a roadmap to be successful in the class. 

This was a great course with great reminders. Be professional and lead by example. Model, manage and motivate. I love it!