Embedded Files
Consultant
Consultant
by Alicia Moore
Have you been in situations like these?
You hear that there are many different ways to create feedback loops in Canvas, but you need someone to guide you through your options.
You know formative and summative assessments will benefit your students’ learning, but you’re not sure where to start.
Everyone keeps using an acronym that you are clearly supposed to know already.
In these scenarios, you need straightforward information--also known as consulting. Costa & Garmston (2012) state that the intention of consulting is to “inform regarding student needs, pedagogy, curriculum, policies, procedures” and to “provide technical assistance and teaching standards.”
Hopefully, your learning specialist is on your short list of people to reach out to when you encounter a dilemma that stands in the way of your students’ success. If the situation is a quick, objective question, they can serve as a consultant to get you the information you need. However, we all know that sometimes advice is the last thing we need. So when can you expect consulting, and when can you expect your learning specialist to opt for less directive support?
If you notice your learning specialist steering clear of advice-giving, know that this is intentional, too. The vision of the Department of Learning Development is to “cultivate a culture of growth that positively impacts student learning.” Oftentimes, growth requires solving problems with multiple possible solutions. In these scenarios, learning specialists will often ask questions, paraphrase, and serve as a sounding board for you because we know that you are truly the expert in your unique situation.
When objective information is needed, learning specialists consult. If you have questions about technical skills or how to find curriculum resources, or if you need help gathering information or defining terms, you can count on our department for straightforward advice.
Costa, A. & Garmston R. (2012) Cognitive Coaching Seminars® foundation training learning guide (9th ed.)
Page updated
Report abuse