Reflecting on this past year, I’ve focused on practical adjustments to further develop my teaching approach in ways that align with the unique needs and challenges of a community college environment.

Encouraging Self-Reflection in Learning

Initially, I used tools like the MBTI personality test to customize teaching based on students’ cognitive preferences. However, I found more value in shifting this focus toward encouraging students to self-assess and identify learning styles that genuinely support their academic goals. For instance, students often describe themselves as visual learners due to a preference for videos, yet many of them discovered through reflective exercises that this approach didn’t always translate into exam success. By incorporating periodic surveys and reminders, I support students in exploring and refining study methods that resonate with their actual learning needs, placing responsibility in their hands and fostering more independent learning habits.

Prioritizing Inclusivity Through Understanding and Patience

Inclusivity has remained central to my teaching philosophy, but this year, I have redefined what this means in practice. Rather than rigidly enforcing policies like attendance or due dates, I’ve learned to approach each student’s circumstances with respect and flexibility, providing support that meets their unique needs. For example, in cases where students faced challenges such as health issues or significant personal obligations, I worked to create a safe space for them to communicate openly about attendance concerns or deadlines. By allowing for flexibility without reducing academic expectations, I’ve found that students feel more accountable and actively engaged in their learning journey, which aligns with the overall goal of a supportive educational environment.

Providing Practical Support for Technology Accessibility

Given the increased emphasis on digital resources, I’ve placed importance on helping students navigate existing technologies rather than overwhelming them with new tools. Many students faced obstacles with tasks as simple as converting assignments to PDF, which added stress unrelated to course content. To reduce these barriers, I provided hands-on demonstrations and individual support, helping them complete technical tasks confidently. Over the summer, I also produced lab safety videos and additional instructional guides to familiarize students with procedures prior to in-lab activities. This approach has enhanced their readiness and lowered entry barriers, making technology a reliable support rather than an obstacle in their learning.

Adapting to Various Teaching Dynamics and Formats

This year, I navigated a variety of class formats, from hyflex and web-enhanced to fully online, each requiring tailored adjustments to optimize the learning experience. In my hyflex classes, I leveraged an iPad to provide digital notes live through Zoom, utilizing new AI features that Zoom introduced to improve accessibility for students. This setup enabled students to review recordings and interact with the material at their own pace, a feature they appreciated for its flexibility and convenience.

For web-enhanced courses, I improved course navigation and readability on Canvas by incorporating icons — such as computer icons for assignments and document icons for readings — making it easier for students to quickly locate resources. I also transitioned all assignments and exams to digital formats, eliminating hard copies and providing thorough guidance at the start of the term to ensure students were comfortable with the new submission process.

In my fully online classes, I placed particular emphasis on lab materials. I created video demonstrations for each experiment, allowing students to prepare in advance and engage more effectively. This video library is continuously expanding, with plans to add similar resources for other courses, ensuring that students across all formats have consistent access to practical, visual materials that support their learning.

These adaptations not only made my classes more accessible and user-friendly but also demonstrated the benefits of technology in enhancing the educational experience across different formats.

Reflecting on this past year, I find that growth has come through practical, responsive changes rather than major overhauls. Supporting self-reflection, encouraging inclusivity, and providing accessible technological support are now established components of my approach, shaping an environment that aligns with both my teaching philosophy and the needs of my students. As I continue refining these strategies, I remain committed to fostering an adaptable, inclusive, and effective educational experience.