This site provides examples of instructional resources created in the Humanizing Online STEM Academy, a professional development program funded by the California Education Learning Lab and administered by the Foothill DeAnza Community College District.
I spent the last few years attending online workshops and webinars researching online teaching methods and tools. I learned so much at a fast rate and began to implement what I learned into my courses. I was comfortable with the tools, technology, and processes I was using. I was utilizing tools such as Canvas Studio, Zoom, and Adobe Creative Cloud that were really helpful, however, there was so much more I did not know I could and should do. There were also additional ways I could use the tools I had availalbe to me to ensure my students feel like they are a part of my courses.
This academy has been so amazing as it has helped me locate gaps in my courses that I did not know existed. I have learned the value of utilizing tools and resources to ensure an equitable, engaging, and humanized course. I have truly developed a deeper level of thinking about the delivery methods of the material I am assigning and every opportunity for interaction with my students. I now look to ensure I am encompassing a warm demander approach to teaching and feedback.
I not only have more tools available to use in my future courses but I have learned new and exciting ways to use those tools. While my online students will most definitely benefit from my newfound knowledge, all of my students will also benefit from the techniques I have learned. I have plans to incorporate what I have learned into my upcoming STEM courses and then follow suit in all of my future courses. This course has helped me realize the value of constant and continued improvement by seeking formal training. I plan to continue to develop and grow my knowledge, skills, and capacity for learning about humanizing techniques.
Students will get to know thier instructor prior to the start of the course by access the liquid syllabus. The liquid syllabus will provide them with an overview of important course information and ease any fears about what to expect in the course.
Upon logging into Canvas, students will be welcomed with an inviting and humanized course card that is meant to reflect the human touch on computer science.
Once students enter Canvas they will enter into the course homepage. Students will be able to find all of the resources they need to get started in our course, contact the instructor, and find a helpful introduction video that will help them learn how to navigate our course.
In one of the first assignments in the "Getting started" module students will complete a Getting to Know you Survey that will ask questions to allow me to get to know who they are, how they learn, and what they hope to gain from the course.
The wisdom wall is a landing pad for students to give and recieve advice about our course. This is a great opportunity for students to be heard and for future students to feel more comfortable in our course.
The course bumper video is a short 3 minute video that focuses on a difficult concept. Some students find the concept to be difficult and when summarized or rephrased, it can seem less daunting.
The micro lecture is a short video that is meant to briefly introduce the concept. The micro lecture allows students to get a glimpse of how I explain and relate concepts to real life. This type of short lecture video also allows students to watch the content in segments rather than a long and intimidating format.
