I like the idea of a warmup/icebreaker for each session throughout the semester! I would like to incorporate more of those fun activities as a way for students to get comfortable and connect with each other in my classes this semester.

And I have to ask: what do you define as the platinum rule of communication?

One of the ideas from the reading in this section that came to mind as I read your post is “actively cultivating a growth mindset community or support system by connecting with like-minded colleagues”. When I was an adjunct lecturer, finding time for professional development opportunities at my college or even informal conversations…[Read more]

I have found that sometimes it helps to connect my own life experiences to the content I am teaching or to share from my own experiences with students, but I am also learning that my students have a diverse range of life experiences, and my story and experiences do not always connect with them. It is much harder, but seems more…[Read more]

This project sounds fascinating! Would you be willing to share a little bit more about the phrase “computational thinking and equity principles”? Does this phrase refer to one blended concept or to two separate ones? Do you have any links to research/articles/examples that would help me and others understand it? Thank you!

I teach within the SEEK program at Queens College, which includes supplemental instruction as a cornerstone of the program. With solid training and a passion for helping other students, supplemental instructors/peer tutors can really make a difference in course outcomes for at-risk students! I have seen the best results when I stay in…[Read more]

When classes were remote throughout the pandemic, I used https://flip.com (formerly called Flipgrid) to introduce myself and had my students record a 1-2 minute introduction video of…[Read more]

Have you found that students are motivated to learn in your course? Do you see a connection between the use of relevant, practical material and the students’ motivation levels?

Allowing students to help create some of the class norms and expectations can definitely build a sense that they are heard and belong in the classroom. What are some of the ways that you invite students to engage with the built-in “pauses” that you describe?

This is a great idea! Have you ever had an experience of a student coming late to class or missing the first day completely? I have had that situation and have struggled to help those students connect with the rest of the class because they haven’t had the shared experience of introductions on the first day. Maybe a way to account for…[Read more]

How do you ask your students to share this information? A form, discussion post, poll, index card? Have you found one method or platform that students will engage with more than others?

This sounds great! I’m curious if you would be willing to share a couple of specific project or assignment ideas where you accomplish this. Do you find that creating a sense of relevance helps to motivate your students?

Getting feedback is so important in the learning process! How do you provide opportunities for your students to receive feedback, and how do you help them to not see critical feedback (intended to benefit them and improve their work) as threatening?