In Philosophy for Theologians, I begin with instruction on how to read critically. Based on students critical reading of the textbook, they write paraphrases, summaries, and critiques of readings throughout the semester. Class discussion revolves around students reflections on the process of writing about the content and their interpretations of the readings. Some students find these writings to be initially difficult to produce, but they appreciate the results when they realize that critical reading and writing help them better understand course material. James A. Thorne , Chair, Biblical Studies Division Crichton College Back to top Consider introducing yourself to students prior to the first class.
Faculty can also request information from students in advance of the first class.
When this is done, the first class becomes a continuation of a greeting process, which puts many learners especially the adult learner at ease. Carolyn Cates , Dean, School of Adult Education Crichton College Back to top Sometimes instructors must teach students about difficult concepts by isolating those concepts from their real world context. When this is necessary, instructors should always help students reconnect the isolated concept to the real world. For example, when teaching writing, instructors sometimes separate various modes of discourse. That is, students write description papers, cause and effect papers, evaluations, and persuasive essays.