Instructor training refreshers as Themed Discussion Sessions

[brownsarahm]

Per a request on slack from an instructor looking for a refresher, can there be a way for instructors to request topics they might want a refresher on and a way to match interested trainers as the hosts?

I know there's a form for requesting a themed discussion session, but I read it as volunteering to host, so a way that makes it clear people can request topics they are not prepared to host and a way for the IDC to help match them to hosts. Maybe the host & requester could be matched according to time-availability also, to make sure the requester is able to attend.

I'm happy to be in the pool of trainers who helps host these.

[angela-li]

Thank you for filing this Sarah! As the person who put in the request for a refresher, what I would find helpful to cover are some of the topics that are about 1) managing challenges in the classroom 2) creating a positive learning environment and 3) improving my skill as a teacher. I feel like I have the basic practices down (live coding, feedback, formative assessments), but I'd love a refresher/informed discussion on some of the soft skills.

My main topics of interest for refreshers include:

• Motivation
• Mindset
• Managing a Diverse Classroom
• Accessibility
• Teaching as a Skill

[kariljordan]

Thank you both, and I think these ideas are phenomenal. I'm tagging the leadership of the Instructor Development Committee!

@sstevens2 @arinbasu @maglet @mchiapello

[mchiapello]

We will discuss the topic as IDC leaders asap.