As a college professor and lecturer/speaker, it’s important to know your audience, relate to them, and keep them engaged. Otherwise your message is lost. Those are some of the simple lessons (reminders, really) that I was taught while reading The Naked Presenter by Garr Reynolds over the weekend. No matter what subject you teach, you…
My first real introduction to the public library (something that was long past overdue) happened when I was 24. That was the day I got my very first public library card. For someone who likes to read, rent new movie releases for free, listen to audio books, and loves to spend $0 while leaving a place…
Like most people, I have a tendency to procrastinate. However, I’ve learned that putting things off and wasting time makes me feel much worse about the situation and can be extremely stressful. Now, most people will tell you to just not procrastinate, and their methods are great if you’ve got enough willpower to really dive…
This morning I sat in a local park with 15 or so other people, stretched, practiced deep breathing, and generally enjoyed myself. Before I go on, it might be important to note: I normally don’t like yoga. If I’m going to workout, I’d prefer a 3-mile run, a kickboxing class, or anything vigorous that leaves…
You know that professor that’s just packing up to leave the classroom as you’re walking in to set up? Potential friend. You know that new teacher that sat next to you at the last faculty meeting? Potential friend. It doesn’t hurt to say ‘hi,’ introduce yourself, and ask what they teach. Odds are, you’ll see…
The subject of low community college graduation rates has been a popular topic in education as of late. According to the U.S. Department of Education in 2013, only 18% of community college students complete their Associates degree and transfer to a four-year school, and the American Association of Community Colleges in 2013 claimed that graduation…
Hours upon hours in the classroom can leave college instructors, particularly adjuncts, feeling exhausted from long commutes and standing on one’s feet all day. Teaching a few online classes is a great way to save yourself some gas money, time, and energy, which in turn will give you more time to teach other classes or…
Over the years, I’ve heard colleagues talk about how valuable some media resources are in the classroom, and it all sounded nice enough. However, once I implemented these tools in my own classroom, I started to fully understand how valuable- and handy- these resources can really be in reaching this generation’s college students. Khan Academy…
As you well know, I’m not a doctor. However, the following are things I do in my life to stay healthy and happy. Over the years I’ve figured out what does and doesn’t work for me. Hopefully, my personal tips can help you in some small way. 1. Adopt positive habits People who smile in…
If you want your students to stop coming up with excuses for why they couldn’t do the homework (they missed lecture last class, they lost the worksheet you handed out, they weren’t clear on the directions, they’re confused, etc.) and you’re looking to make life easier on yourself in general, here’s the secret: Make your…