Advancing My Teaching in Higher Education

As I complete my Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) program at Michigan State University, I am focusing on my future learning goals to advance my career in the post-secondary education sector. Driven by my passion to make a significant impact on new teachers in their teacher preparation programs, I aim to teach a course on Kagan Cooperative Learning. My experience as a classroom teacher and  National Kagan Trainer has shown me the transformative impact these Cooperative Learning Structures can have on students and educators alike. Witnessing how these strategies have revolutionized my own classroom and professional development presentations, I am convinced that equipping new teachers with these tools from the outset of their careers is essential. This passion fuels my desire to teach in higher education and further develop my skills in teaching adult learners. My primary goals include: 1) Gaining expertise in teaching at the collegiate level, 2) Learning how to introduce new courses in teacher credentialing programs, and 3) Developing skills for teaching adult learners. 

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Goal #1:

Gaining Expertise in Teaching at the Collegiate Level

To effectively transition to teaching at the collegiate level, I need to develop a deep understanding of higher education pedagogy and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. This includes understanding theories and practices specific to adult education and higher education settings, gaining skills in designing and implementing curriculum that meets the needs and standards of post-secondary institutions, and developing proficiency in creating meaningful and rigorous assessment methods suitable for higher education students. The Chronicle of Higher Education will be a valuable resource for this goal as it offers articles, research, and insights into the latest trends and best practices in higher education teaching, learning, and administration. Additionally, The Association of American Colleges and Universities also provides resources on liberal education, effective teaching practices, curriculum design, and assessment strategies, along with conferences and publications to aid in understanding and implementing high-quality education practices. By leveraging these resources, I can enhance my effectiveness as a collegiate-level educator.

 

Goal #2:

Learning How to Introduce New Courses in Teacher Preparation/Credentialing Programs

While I was able to learn a little about course design at the collegiate level in the MAET program, there is far more to learn. Introducing a new course to a teacher preparation or credentialing program requires a comprehensive understanding of curriculum development, program requirements, and institutional processes. This includes expertise in creating course syllabi, learning outcomes, and instructional materials that align with credentialing standards. Knowledge of accreditation requirements and state or national standards for teacher education programs is also essential. Additionally, understanding the procedures for gaining approval for new courses, including proposal writing and presenting to curriculum committees, is crucial. The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education is an essential resource, providing guidance on best practices in teacher preparation, policy updates, and resources for curriculum development. Moreover, resources from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation offer insights into accreditation standards, while publications from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education  can help navigate the complexities of introducing new courses. Together, these resources will support my goal of effectively introducing new courses in teacher preparation programs.and resources for curriculum development, helping to navigate the complexities of introducing new courses.

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Goal #3:

Developing Skills for Teaching Adult Learners

Transitioning from teaching middle and elementary school students to adult learners requires a shift in instructional strategies and an understanding of adult learning principles. To develop the necessary skills for teaching adult learners, I need to understand theories such as andragogy, self-directed learning, and transformational learning. Additionally, I must develop instructional strategies that engage adult learners, including collaborative learning, experiential learning, and technology-enhanced learning. Effective classroom management for adults involves creating an environment that respects their unique backgrounds and experiences. The Adult Higher Education Alliance will be a key resource for this goal, offering resources, conferences, and publications focused on adult education. One of the publications that caught my eye when looking at their site was a book titled Enriching the Adult Learner’s Experience in High Education.

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Conclusion

With my Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) from Michigan State University on the horizon, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and readiness to embark on the next chapter of my career in higher education. Throughout my time as an adult learner in the MAET Program, I have been deeply inspired by the dedication and expertise of my instructors, who have not only imparted knowledge but also served as mentors and role models. Their impact on me has been profound, igniting within me a desire to pay it forward and make a meaningful difference in the lives of other adult learners and new teachers. As I pursue my future learning goals, including gaining expertise in collegiate-level teaching, introducing new courses in teacher preparation programs, and developing skills for teaching adult learners, I am committed to leveraging the invaluable resources available to me, such as The Chronicle of Higher Education and The Association of American Colleges and Universities. By doing so, I aspire to enhance my effectiveness as an educator, empower my students, and contribute positively to the field of higher education. Through reflection on my own journey and the transformative power of education, I am excited to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and continue my mission of lifelong learning and growth.