blog posts

• Transforming Learning by Flipping the Classroom

  Nov 1, 2012 8:00 am

  Transforming Learning by Flipping the Classroom. Have you thought about "flipping" the traditional way of teaching so that students are first introduced to the content outside of class and then spend class time for discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and identifying areas of difficulty? This is not a new idea; however, it is one that has generated much attention, especially in the STEM disciplines. In this article from the Chronicle of Higher Education, Dan Berrett describes how lectures can be "flipped."  Also, learn more by coming to the CTE workshop on Nov. 14.

   

   

• An Inclusive Learning Environment

  Oct 17, 2012 8:00 am

  An Inclusive Learning Environment.  Our student population has become more diverse; e.g., we have seen an increased international population, students from different backgrounds and achievement and with special needs.What are some teaching strategies and issues we should consider to provide a learning environment where all of our students can experience success?  Click here to see suggestions and strategies.  Also, CTE has two workshops that may be of interest to you on this topic:  October 22 and October 30.

• Learning through Student Teams

  Oct 17, 2012 8:00 am

  Learning through Student Teams. One of the benefits of team assignments is the opportunity for students to teach other (peer learning). If carefully planned and monitored, team work results in improved skills in problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills. Click here to learn how to implement team work in your courses. You may also attend the CTE team workshop on October 31^st.

• Providing Constructive Feedback to Students

  Oct 3, 2012 8:00 am

  Providing Constructive Feedback to Students. Students typically focus on the grades they receive and not carefully read the written feedback. What are the types of comments that will help your students learn from your feedback?  Click here for suggestions on types of effective comments and questions you can provide. 

  
  

• Tests as Opportunities for More Learning

  Oct 3, 2012 8:00 am

  Tests as Opportunities for More Learning. Tests are generally thought as ways to assess what and how much students have learned. If carefully crafted, they can also serve as opportunities for additional learning to happen. See this article on creating different types of effective tests.

• Strategies to Assess Student Learning

  Sep 19, 2012 8:00 am

  Strategies to Assess Student Learning.  Classroom Assessment Techniques (CATs) are quick, easy to implement strategies that provide valuable information about how well your students understand the content.  They can be used on a daily basis to provide valuable feedback for both you and your students. Why wait until the first exam to see how your students are doing.  Click here to learn more or register for our Oct. 5th CTE workshop.

• Now is the Time for Informal Early Feedback

  Sep 18, 2012 8:00 am

  Using informal early feedback (IEF) can help you learn about what is working and what is not working in your class at a time when you can make mid-course corrections. Late-September to mid-October is a great time to collect this feedback from your students.  To learn more about this helpful form, you can attend these IEF workshops on Sept. 24th or Oct. 9th.  Additional information and samples are on our website.

• Learning Students' Names

  Sep 5, 2012 8:00 am

  Learning Students' Names. Research indicates that knowing students' names makes for a better semester for you and your students.  Here are several strategies on how to remember their names and learn more about them.  Click here to read them.
  

• Maximizing Student Achievement and Interest

  Sep 5, 2012 8:00 am

  Maximizing Student Achievement and Interest. Teachers' content knowledge and instructional skills play a critical role in improving students' academic achievement.  Here are seven ways offered by Walter Jacobs to keep in mind as we begin a successful start of the semester.  Click here to read these important strategies.

• Should Effort Count? Students Certainly Think So

  Apr 12, 2012 8:00 am

   

  Should Effort Count? Students Certainly Think So. Students and instructors have different ideas about how a course grade should be determined.This article by Maryellen Weimer shares student and faculty beliefs about what percentage of the course grade should be assigned to effort and to performance.With this knowledge, you'll be better prepared to prevent and respond to grade disputes. Click here to read the article.