Dr. Tim Conrad from NYU on Creating a Positive Learning Environment



Get ready for this school year by unpacking your digital backpack with Dr. Tim Conrad, Faculty, Department of Applied Psychology, NYU and Founder, Resilient Resources LLC. Dr. Conrad has found that in the online and offline teaching world, creating a positive learning environment can help students reach higher than they anticipated and increases the odds that they will learn from constructive faculty feedback. He encourages faculty to set a positive mindset for the new academic year by trying out some of these tips:

1. Acknowledge our power!

As faculty, we have power. We inform students about class starts, set expectations, and record grades. It helps to be mindful of our power by creating a positive, safe place for students to make mistakes and advocate for themselves. 


2. Remember our Bookends! 

Greet your Students: Thank your students for attending class and greet them by name. Gauge the Temperature: See how everyone is feeling coming into class. Consider the use of a feelings chart as an entry ticket to class. Exit & Inquire: Ask the class, “What have we learned together today?” Remember: Learning is about WE!


3. Do our Homework.

As educators, we consistently do our homework to prepare for each term start. This often includes meeting with program leadership and peers. Consider meeting with 2U Trainers in coaching sessions and attending enrichment seminars to help you pick up your game.