Reflect: Think back on the first half of your semester and write down 2-3 things that you think went really well and 2-3 things you think could have gone better. Reflect upon both the successes and shortcomings of your class and write down 2-3 things you might do in the second half of the semester to make the class more successful. Try to implement these changes into your lesson plans right away so you don’t forget to do so.
Read a book on pedagogy: Spring break is a great time to relax, crack open a book, and learn something new about teaching. The Kaneb Center especially recommends Ken Bain’s What the Best College Teachers Do. Make sure not to miss out on Ken Bain’s talk on “Fostering Deep Learning and Creativity” on Friday, April 6 at 2:00pm. Register at kaneb.nd.edu/events/
Read some articles on pedagogy: Don’t have time to read an entire book over break? Head on over to the Chronicle of Higher Education’s website to see what’s new in the pedagogy. I also highly suggest “The Case for Inclusive Teaching” by Kevin Gannon on Chroniclevitae.com. Be sure to check out the Tuesday, April 17th workshop on “What’s New in Pedagogy Research”
Sign up for some Kaneb Center Workshops: The Kaneb Center still has a number of workshops upcoming in the second half of the semester. Take a moment to browse the list and find a workshop that fits your needs and schedule. If the workshop is showing as filled, please put your name on the waitlist as there is a chance you may still be able to attend if confirmed attendees drop out.
