We have learned so many things......

We have learned so many things these past three semesters about teaching, students, CTE, etc. What is one thing you learned about teaching that has really helped you improve and grow? What is one thing you learned about YOURSELF as either a teacher or a student? One thing that I've learned about teaching that has really helped me to improve and grow is managing my class better, and not assume that all students are familiar with how to do things that I perceive as second nature. As for class management, I learned that by simply planning an engaging opener and not spending much time on lecturing can help create an effective learning environment. Another bonus for me, as simple as it may be, is having students repeat the directions after giving instructions on assignments. I didn't realize how much you can alleviate confusion, miscommunication and save time by having students repeat the instructions. It helps me to know whether or not they understand the directions and what's required. As a student at NTI, I've learned to put myself in my students shoes. For example, some of my students tend to be lethargic after lunch and need a stimulation to gear their minds to learn again. While taking classes last summer at NTI, we were given the opportunity of taking one hour lunches. Upon returning to class, I too at times felt tired and wanted to take a nap but still had to press into working on assignments. This scenario helped me to be more understanding towards my students who tend to work slower than others after lunch. I also learned how to have mercy on students who may need an extension on assignments. I didn't really give my students a lot of flexibility when working on projects. Giving strict deadlines to students was my way of preparing them for the real world, but negating the fact that life happens. I now have a different perspective towards students who need extensions on assignments provided they have valid reasons.