Listen to this Blog
The following audio version of the first section of this blog post was created using the AI text-to-speech feature of Microsoft's ClipChamp video editor (which is now a part of Daytona State's M365 package).
Embracing Lifelong Learning
Growing and challenging ourselves in the pursuit of lifelong learning is not just an expectation, but necessary. We are uniquely involved with educational opportunities to work with students who range in age by the decades. That means we embrace all types of learners, from the “old school” to the “new age” and flexibility is the key. Improving ourselves as educators means going outside of the comfort zone of the classroom to engage ourselves with opportunities for the expansion of knowledge. In this case, I am referring to the ACUE classes. All of us have memories of our journey in academics, we have also made a conscious decision to continue that journey in the unique role of “teacher.” Whatever that role means to you, the meaning of that role to the student is unique to them.
Strategies for Student Success
ACUE trains new and experienced instructors to gain valuable insights into enhancing student motivation and engagement. One of the key takeaways was the importance of inspiring students about the subject matter. Some ideas included discussing or creating a video that describes my interest and background where I can convey my passion and enthusiasm, which in turn can (hopefully) ignite a similar interest in my students. I also use videos to share the relevance of the course content to their academic and career goals and help students see the practical applications of what they are learning, making the material more meaningful and engaging. The ACUE classes focus on supporting student success, a crucial aspect of all learning, regardless of the setting. Simple actions like getting to know students’ names and using them in interactions can create a more personalized and welcoming classroom environment. The courses also include the importance of creating opportunities for interaction and relationship-building among students and fostering a sense of community and collaboration. If classes are in-person or online, this can be setting up the students in groups, which can enhance their learning experience and begin connections with others.
Often, varying assessment and presentation methods, and offering a rationale for these choices, can cater to different learning styles and keep students engaged. Some of the suggestions in the ACUE class discussed incentivizing assignment completion. This strategy can be modified for a variety of classes. I have a set due date for assignments and each day late is a 10 percent deduction from the overall score, then points penalties for rubric aspects. While I do not assign bonus points for early or on-time work, the student is not penalized as an all-or-nothing if the work is handed in late.
Another strategy I use is teaching students to set achievable goals to maintain their motivation. In the RN-BSN program, there are ten courses, with each of the last two courses partnered with a 90-hour practicum. Planning for the two 90-hour practicums can be daunting or even seem overwhelming for the students, so beginning in the first program course, and then in a consecutive course, I have an assignment called “planning for the future.” The assignment sets the foundation for planning actions and a timeline for preparation early. Once I created and implemented the assignment in two of the classes prior to the practicum, the students continued to be more prepared for the comprehensive classes and practicums at the end of the program.
Final Thoughts & Future Offerings
ACUE has equipped me with practical strategies to create a motivating and supportive learning environment, ultimately enhancing student success and engagement. For this fall 2024 and spring 2025 semesters, faculty will have the opportunity to enroll in the ACUE AI Quick Study series! Do you want to feel confident and prepared to use AI to support teaching and learning? The self-paced Quick Study features four, one-hour interactive courses. Explore AI context and terminology, as well as the challenges and benefits of AI in education. For more information or to enroll contact the Center for Teaching & Learning at 386-506-3485 or by email at CITL@daytonastate.edu.
Faculty Development Opportunities
Upcoming Events
There are a ton of great faculty development events happening this semester. These include the Let's Talk Teaching series, WAC/WID, and the Snack & Share series. To learn more about upcoming opportunities, check out the schedule of Faculty Development Workshops.
Dr. Kelly Duffy, EdD, MSN, RN
Senior Professor, Assistant Chair
Kelly.Duffy@daytonastate.edu
386-506-7320
RN to BSN program