Category Archives: Teaching
iClicker Reminders for New Semester
Here are a few reminders as you get your course up and running to use iclickers: Only install iClicker software from our website CTL. It has special settings for UVM and Blackboard. Link to iClicker page on CTL website Check … Continue reading
Faculty-to-Faculty Consulting Program
The CTL welcomes our new faculty associates, Nicole Phelps, (History) and Dianna Murray-Close, (Psychological Science). In their roles as faculty associates, Drs. Phelps and Murray-Close will be available to consult individually with faculty about teaching challenges including those related to teaching … Continue reading
The Sound and Fury (When Classroom Discussions are Difficult)
Sometimes class discussions are difficult because students are hesitant to participate or because one student tends to dominate. And sometimes—as we’ve heard from faculty in these turbulent times—they’re difficult because emotions are running high and some students may be angry … Continue reading
Knowing Thyself Gets a Hand from Exam Wrappers
Most of us can identify with the chagrin students feel when they earn a grade that they’re not happy about. But, as with most of life’s stings, the disappointment comes with a learning opportunity. An exam wrapper (or assignment or project wrapper) … Continue reading
Election Tensions can Spill into the Classroom
The following blog post from the University of Michigan invites us to thoughtfully consider the teaching challenges and opportunities afforded by this often hostile election season. It asks that faculty from all disciplines encourage students to think critically and hold … Continue reading
First Day of Class
Even if you have extensive teaching experience, the first day of class can create some nervous jitters. So, we’ve collected a few suggestions, tips, and resources here that will help your class get off to a good start. One of … Continue reading
Using Collaborative Learning Experiences to Support Student Success
This post is contributed by Dr. Ellen McShane, Director of Academic Success Programs at UVM. Author George D. Kuh (2008) has identified collaborative learning experiences as a “high-impact practice” that allows students to succeed in college. Collaborative learning experiences can … Continue reading
De-Stressing Students
As we all know, the end of the semester is a stressful time for both faculty and students. While we can’t eliminate most of the causes of stress, we can mitigate stress’ negative effects on our physical and emotional states … Continue reading
Michael Wesch’s Latest Work
According to Dr. Michael Wesch, his new website, myteachingnotebook.com, focuses on “the pursuit of joy in teaching and learning.” I first saw it in August and made a note to myself to share it here in mid-semester, when the geese … Continue reading
Mobile Devices in Class – Yes or No?
Premise: all students want to text in class and will do so surreptitiously if they can, so many faculty feel the only way to keep students focused is to ban mobile device use altogether. Many blog posts and articles on … Continue reading