Before I started the Humanizing Online STEM Academy, I considered my teaching style to be approachable. This is particularly the case because I teach Biological Psychology and Research Methods in Psychology, which are two of the most difficult and potentially intimidating courses, so I want to compensate for that by being more approachable and 'human'. However, I wasn't sure if I hitting all the marks on that. Since I'm in the Psychology field, I was already aware of implicit bias and stereotype threat, but didn't know all the statistics on minoritized students. I was also really concerned about the time commitment for this course, as I have a busy semester and was also taking another online professional development workshop at the same time.
It's a relief to know I'm on the right track! One thing that really struck me was the difference between people from individualistic vs collectivist cultures when it comes to teaching and learning. I've taught students about these cultures but had never thought of their relevance when it came to my teaching approach! For instance, I don't like video or audio feedback comments, because I'm often in an office or room with someone so it's easier and quicker for me to read it, but now that I know some learners respond well to that, I plan on asking students their preference at the beginning of the semester (and also in the middle of the semester). There were some great tips and techniques in the class. For example, I had never used Adobe Express or Flip before, so it was great to get experience using new tools.
I plan to continue with what I've been doing, as well as incorporate the 'getting to know you survey' in the beginning of the semester, as well as sending out my Liquid Syllabus with Welcome Video prior to the semester. I already send out an email with video, but the liquid syllabus seems more warm and welcoming. I also plan to use notes in gradebook to keep track of students' feedback preference, DPS accommodations, high opportunity learners. I thought I was pretty Canvas-savvy but didn't know that the Notes was something you can add that students won't see. I really like Adobe Express and plan on using that for more bumper videos. I'm happy to continute my Humanizing STEM journey and feel confident I have the skillset to do that now!