The Academic Commons

This episode features Anita Fennessey DrNP, RN, CNE, and a discussion around her dynamic approach to teaching foundational skills through interactive and engaging strategies.

Transcript Episode 4: Interactive Strategies & Foundational Skills with Dr. Anita Fennessey

Guest: Dr. Anita Fennessey

• Role: Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Thomas Jefferson University
• Expertise: Student engagement, interprofessional collaboration, methodologies to increase student knowledge and engagement

Quote from the Episode:

Getting Started:

• Use interactive and engaging methods like Nearpod to make learning fun and competitive.
• Promote active learning by breaking students into groups for case studies and collaborative projects.
• Create a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable participating without fear of mistakes.
• Balance technology use by integrating devices meaningfully into lessons while setting clear boundaries to maintain focus.
• Observe colleagues teaching to gather ideas for your own teaching methods.
• Review content with the mindset of a novice learner to better anticipate potential student questions.
• Contact us to get started with interactive and engaging teaching strategies.

Terms to Know:

The terms below are mentioned in the episode, and for context and clarity, we've provided brief definitions of terms you will hear.

• Active Learning: An instructional approach that engages students directly in the learning process.
• Nearpod: A digital learning platform that enables interactive presentations, quizzes, and collaborative activities.
• Foundational Skills: Basic skills that are essential for learning more complex skills later, such as communication, critical thinking, and professionalism in nursing.
• Interactive Strategies: Teaching methods that involve active student participation and engagement, such as using games, group activities, and technology tools like Nearpod.

Selected Resources:

The Learning Curve team curated this list based on university resources or guest recommendations.

1. Academic Commons: Nearpod
2. Academic Commons: Learner Engagement
3. Academic Commons Upcoming Workshops and Events
4. Teaching at its best : a research-based resource for college instructors