Certification in College Teaching Institute, May 9-10, 2019, Michigan State University

Worksheet for Reflections and Applications for Teaching and Learning

Session: Creating Effective Learning Environments Thursday

What skills and techniques did I learn that will help me become a better educator?

I learned the five steps to peer instruction (i.e., introduction/background, posing the question, discussion, regroup, and further explanation as
necessary). I also learned about how students who raise their hands are likely to be the ones who feel comfortable and confident in the space,
so making the space inviting for participation is a priority for class participation.

What things am I still uncertain about regarding this topic that I need to investigate further in the future?

I’m not completely certain about how to apply backward faded scaffolding in my teaching. The example given was imagining trying to teach a
using an opposite-handed flute. Not only is this difficult for me to imagine as someone who has never played a flute, but I also struggle to
apply flute-playing (a physical musical skill) to teaching a lesson such as sport psychological theories (an abstract concept with no physical
manifestation).

How can I apply materials from this session to my own class to enhance the effectiveness of teaching and learning?

When lecturing on a potentially controversial or sensitive subject (particularly common in sport sociology courses), I could start with
anonymous clicker questions. This method would be less awkward than a showing of hands, and could still gauge the views or experiences of
the class.