All posts by bryan lopez

What are you thinking of?

Take Care of Your Mind Leave a comment

Thinking about the next deadline? Thinking about what to eat? Thinking about when the next Zoom call is? Thinking about what time you should wake up tomorrow? Thinking about …

But what is happening right now, in-front of you… at this very moment? With many tasks to complete – it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Feeling overwhelmed can lead to unnecessary distress. One way to prevent this is by practicing mindfulness.

“Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment. Mindfulness is now being examined scientifically and has been found to be a key element in stress reduction and overall happiness.” Help Guide

 

Click here for more information on mindfulness.

Tips for Online Practicum

Connect with Others Leave a comment

Hello Everyone!

Here are some tips that will help better your online teaching experience:

  1. Be concise and direct with instruction (similar to following a recipe book)
  2. Have a planner or spreadsheet with a list of tasks you want to get done for the week
  3. Set yourself times to get specific tasks done (ex. 30 minutes of marking each day to make yourself accountable) 
  4. Set a routine – finding an appropriate workspace, time, separate yourself from home (try not to work on your bed when working) 
  5. Make sure to have a document for grades (ex. Excel document – It will be easier to keep track of students who are missing assignments and identify students who are falling behind in work)
  6. Make your assignments clear and concise -refer back to the big ideas and core competencies.
  7. Try and request for your SA’s number. It will make it easier to communicate with them rather than emailing back and forth.
  8. Make sure to communicate early with your SA with kids who are not completing assignments or not responding to emails. This will help identify any students who need extra help. 
  9. Collaborate with your peers to share resources (we are all facing similar challenges) Check in with cohort members.
  10. Think how you can BEST support your students (checking in with students either through email or phone calls with students who may be falling behind or struggling) 
  11. Flipped Classroom 

If you would like more tips in the future, please submit your feedback here.