Teaching in Higher Ed
Joyful Connections Through Intentional Teaching Practices
Oct 10, 2024
Teresa Thompson, a tenured accounting professor at West Valley College known for her innovative teaching, shares her unique approach to education. She emphasizes the power of intentional communication, like thoughtful welcome emails, to ease students' anxiety. Teresa creatively incorporates pop culture into her syllabi, with themes like Barbie and Pokémon, making learning relatable and fun. She also highlights the importance of empathy and connection in fostering a supportive classroom environment, ensuring students feel seen and engaged.
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Quick takeaways
- Intentional practices like welcome emails significantly reduce student anxiety and foster a sense of belonging in the classroom.
- Creative syllabus themes, such as pop culture references, engage students and demonstrate the instructor's commitment to an innovative learning environment.
Deep dives
The Power of Intentional Teaching
Intentional teaching practices are essential for creating meaningful connections with students. Simple gestures, like sending a welcome email before the semester starts, can significantly reduce student anxiety and foster a sense of belonging. By sharing personal details and class expectations in these communications, educators can show their enthusiasm and make students feel valued, which has proven effective in encouraging them to stay enrolled in their classes. This proactive engagement helps bridge the gap for students, particularly those who may feel isolated or uncertain in the college environment.
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