Best Practices
A shared space for proven classroom strategies for teaching and learning!

• Student Retention
  The CCSSE (Community College Student Survey of Engagement) offers an overview of best practices in improving student retention, including:
  
  • Focus on each student's potential, rather than challenges.
  • High expectations (for everyone!) and support go hand in hand.
  • Teaching and learning are active and collaborative, in class and outside the classroom.
  • Be bold, flexible and take risks.
  • Improvement is a constant journey!
  Brief videos feature faculty and students describing their use of best practices for student retention.
  —Resource suggested by Laura Crane, Director of the Office of Research
  
  
• Tip of the Week
  Richard Lyons, author of Teaching College in an Age of Accountability, offers weekly tips on topics including classroom discussions, effective small groups, and student-centered learning strategies.
  
  
• Breaking the Ice
  On the first day of class ask students to talk to teach other in groups of two or three people. Next, ask them to introduce a member of their group to the class. This makes sure each student is acquainted with at least one other person in the class. — suggested by Peg Smith, Professor
  
  
• Being Approchable
  Effective teachers connect with as many student as possible each day. Teachers who truly care about people take the time to let them know. A simple "Good Morning!" or "How are you doing?" can make a big difference and start someone's day off on a positive note." Used by permission. — Neila A. Connors
  
  
• Last Day of Class
  The last day of any class is a special day. View a brief video for a few examples of how to transition the students out of the course -- with a bit of reflection on all that was accomplished.
  
  
  
• Your Teaching Tip Goes Here!
  Send your teaching strategy to Terry Morris (tmorris@harpercollege.edu) to be included in this list.