My expectations for this course were initially centered around the exploration of technologies used in schools and universities and how to leverage them for effective teaching. However, I found that the course primarily focused on improving teaching quality and effectiveness holistically.

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In contrast to traditional learning, we, as students, graduate teaching assistants, and prospective faculty fellows, shared our personal experiences on various events that had enhanced our learning or teaching effectiveness. Learning from experiences is rare and cannot be easily taught or learned in a short period of time.

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Throughout the course, our instructors, Dr. Li and Dr. Hanselman, delved into various tools and methodologies crucial for educators. We explored common challenges encountered by mentors in real-world scenarios, along with effective resolutions. Some of the key areas discussed included:

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• Designing courses to foster creativity and enhance the learning environment.

• Implementing strategies to engage students effectively both online and in traditional classrooms.

• Facilitating collaborative and cooperative learning experiences.

• Developing instructional materials and leveraging technologies for optimized learning outcomes.

• Exploring diverse methods for assessing student progress and understanding.

• Providing constructive feedback and designing rubrics for effective evaluation.

• Employing techniques to deepen learning experiences and encourage meaningful reflections.

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With each discussion, we became more equipped to become effective mentors.