CUNY Academic Commons

I incoporate tenets of culturally competent practice specifically the “platinum rule of communication”- that is ask others how they want to be treated. I also like to let students know that “they are my best teachers”- and everyone has a story- this encourages sharing, community building

This was extremely challenging for me as I am “shy” and self-conscious in hearing my own voice. I tried to record it and kept redoing it. I took time to pause and take deep breaths as I often talk very fast. I let students know that I am a real person, and that our class will allow for a safe environment where we are encouraged to ask, learn and…[Read more]

The idea is to have students create a “Response to Inspiration”- that is asking students to think about what they are most “passionate about” and having them try to think about ways this passion connects to the academic learning activity

I like to start with the “2 word check in”- which allows students to choose 2 words to describe how they are feeling. Then I like to have students work in pairs to “interview one another” for active listening and present on their partner- facts about them 😉 another fun way to get to know students is playing a guessing game (using a “hangman…[Read more]

In struggling to better manage time and complete tasks, I often force myself to “start” with the 2 minutes, 5 minute principle. The “Make your bed” book (McRaven) is keen on doing small things first

This is dififcult to answer in a post, especially given the emphasis on “work ready skills” as many students may not see the relationship between coursework and real life. I find that when a specific topic is integrated into students life their passion, persistence, etc increases.

What is the pupose of higher education and why are some students more motivated? This is dififcult to answer in a post, especially given the emphasis on “work ready skills” as many students may not see the relationship between coursework and real life. I find that when a specific topic is integrated into students life their passion, persistence,…[Read more]