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Are Classes Hard?

Many students want to know if my classes are difficult. When taking college-level course, you can certainly expect there to be a greater amount of work. We are taking part in-class lectures and discussions, outside readings and assignments, and time we would spend before and after class discussing the days topics and/or upcoming assignments. No matter the outcome, I do want my students to succeed and am available for questions.

Are they hard?

I believe in working with students toward a successful outcome. As a first generation college student, I understand how balancing work, family, and school can deplete our energy. Yet, as a career-minded course, we are expected to develop our professional abilities and learn how to enhance our academic performance. 

How Much Reading

Every week, zero/low cost readings and videos via Canvas are carefully selected to ensure the essential question can be answered. The readings may be challenging, yet effective time management is part of the college experience. 

How Much Weekly Work

There are weekly discussions (Porch Talks), quizzes (Cyber Hunts), and assignments (Tasks) via Canvas. Porch Talks serve as classroom conversations where students participate in posting replies and comments on each other. This is another way to be counted "in-class." Each Porch Talk is designed to enhance the week's topic, Cyber Hunts are designed to assess knowledge, and assignments are to allow practical application and provide proof of understanding. 

Strict Grading? 

A rubric can be found on each assignment page. It contains evaluative criteria, quality definitions for those criteria at particular levels of achievement, and a scoring strategy. Reading the rubric will guide you toward the best possible outcome. All assignments and discussions will have positive instructor feedback that will enable you to understand how to maintain your focus toward a successful outcome. Grading is usually completed within 72 hours.

Is It A Lot Of Writing? 

No matter the format, discussions, and assignments must be in written form. Unless otherwise stated, APA formatting is a requirement for assignment submissions in all child development courses. Remember to review all rubrics and assignments thoroughly. Helpful Resources will always be provided in an effort to ensure your success. 

APA Format for Writing

All CHDV courses use APA 7th edition writing format for all assignments and papers. If you haven't used APA format before, don't be intimidated! It will get easier and easier with each paper, and I am here to help you. Our Canvas site has plenty of resources and directions for formatting your papers in APA 7th edition. By becoming comfortable with using APA format, you'll be well prepared for future Social Science classes you may take!

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure”. - Colin Powell

Formative Assessments

Provides opportunities to reflect on your own learning and areas that need further exploration and understanding.

Porch Talks

Weekly discussions take place of in-class opportunities to share insight, experience, and support each other's growth in the field.

Summative Assessments

An opportunity to display student learning throughout a course utilizing reflective practices and end-of-course final projects.

Observation & Assessment

Palomar College

Adult Supervision & Mentoring

Palomar College

Practicum in Early Childhood

Palomar College