Zuri Wilson-Seymore

Greetings Peers!

Tips for engagement in the virtual classroom:

• All of my virtual classes begin with icebreakers, which allow students to unwind before the lecture. 
• There are multiple icebreakers implemented into the courses I instruct, such as games involving the parts of speech and homophones like "affect" and "effect." I will offer extra credit to the winners. The friendly competition creates a fun atmosphere.
• Various writing activities are involved.  For example, journal and free writing. The students are given a disclaimer to share what they do not mind others knowing, and each student reads the journal submission from
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I have learned the significance of clear communication and an open-door policy to schedule a phone chat or virtual meeting with a student who may feel anxious about dropping the course because they failed the first assignment.  It is paramount to be empathetic and support students. 

The Role of Technology I Origin: EL 201

This module informs us about the various forms of communication, such as instant live chats in virtual classes. Many forms of communication on a desktop, laptop, iPad, and/or cellphone. The variety of options is sure to suit the virtual student. Sometimes students take a collaborative approach in the virtual classes I have instructed. Some students use their iPad to interact in class discussions, and a laptop to be on camera. 

Linking Relationship to Retention I Origin EL: 201

This module taught me the significance of reassuring students they are supported through clear communication and permitting their voices to be heard. I instruct as a transparent person and always inform my students that our virtual space is a sacred and safe place for a community-driven environment. 

Understanding Online Learning | EL 201

This learning module was quite informative. I have learned the significance of asking students fact-finding questions, encouraging students to specify their needs and avoid being general with statements such as, "I am lost." Clear communication is paramount as everyone learns differently. Ultimately, creating a virtual space that promotes community and trust for students.

Instructional Delivery Assessment:

This module has a myriad of concepts such as Creating Lesson Plans, addressing the Three ways of learning according to Harvard Business Publishing, and the explanation of Why are some instructors very good at lecturing (amongst a multitude of other ideas)?

Creating Lesson Plans of great detail permits me to be prepared for the lecture with flexibility. Mainly as the module expresses it aids in remaining focused. The students are greeted by name as they login to our virtual classroom. My practice is to color coordinate my lesson plans in a chart formatted template. Usually, there… >>>

Instructional Delivery and Assessment:

There are a plethora of things that I have learned from this module that I am thrilled to implement into the classroom: Things that students should have at the end of class, The value of participation, and Motivating Students (just to name a few).

The four things that professors want their students to have at the end of their first class meeting are clear paths to set a clear tone and supportive path for the students.

1. A sense of where there going and how they are going to get there. An overview of the expectations
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Enhancing Student Retention:

This module has been quite full-filling to learn techniques to enhance students retention. I am most inspired by How can you help your students to understand why you have set the course expectations at the level you have? Why is repeated recognition and rewards so important for student success? Also, how does starting the class with some lighthearted moments contribute to getting the students ready for learning?

Setting standards for the classroom is paramount. I like the suggestion of showing students examples of competency levels required for advancement in the career field. My practice is to have… >>>

Understanding Student Characteristics: 

This course has been quite informative. There are many things that I have learned, however, I will narrow it down to three major points that have greatly inspired me: Cooperation between student who differ in age, How to make a student coming from another culture or country feel comfortable in class, and A good strategy to use when dealing with student frustrations.

Assigning students of different ages to work together in small groups permits students to show an appreciation for students of all ages. The participants have an opportunity to become more open to what the student… >>>