by Joyce Povlacs Lunde Show
IntroductionBeginnings are important. Whether it is a large introductory course for freshmen or an advanced course in the major field, it makes good sense to start the semester off well. Students will decide very early--some say the first day of class--whether they will like the course, its contents, the teacher, and their fellow students. The following list is offered in the spirit of starting off right. It is a catalog of suggestions for college teachers who are looking for fresh ways of creating the best possible environment for learning. Not just the first day, but the first three weeks of a course are especially important, studies say, in retaining capable students. Even if the syllabus is printed and lecture notes are ready to go in August, most college teachers can usually make adjustments in teaching methods as the course unfolds and the characteristics of their students become known. These suggestions have been gathered from UNL professors and from college teachers elsewhere. The rationale for these methods is based on the following needs:
Here, then, are some ideas for college teachers for use in their courses in the new academic year: Helping Students Make Transitions
Directing Students' Attention
Challenging Students
Providing Support
Encouraging Active Learning
Feedback on Teaching
Why is it important to get to know your students?Understanding your students' interests will help you to provide them with quality learning opportunities. By giving them the opportunity to explore areas they are interested in – for example, the environment – they will be more likely to engage with the learning process.
What are the three most important things to know about a student?What Great Teachers Know About Their Students. Critical thinking habits.. Ideal learning environment & circumstances.. Which challenges they'll respond to most powerfully.. Their personal histories (e.g., what they've overcome). Personal strengths.. Insecurities about school.. How they respond to structure.. Why is it important for teachers to know their students?By knowing your learners, so you can deliver exactly what they need. By having a deeper understanding of them you can approach them like a friend and guide them like a mentor to make them change their behavior and attitudes. Have conversations with them frequently.
Why is it important for students to learn about areas of the world other than where they live?Teaching students about global affairs in an authentic way can teach them acceptance and understanding of cultures and others. It can allow them to feel more empathy as they learn more about the various types of living styles. It can open their eyes to see that their lifestyle isn't how someone else lives.
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