Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/teaching-character
As educators, we’re constantly seeking ways to not only impart knowledge but also to foster well-rounded, resilient, and positive individuals. The Coursera course, ‘Teaching Character and Creating Positive Classrooms,’ offers a compelling blend of positive psychology and K-12 pedagogy, and I’m thrilled to share my experience with it.
This course is a gem for anyone involved in education, from seasoned teachers to aspiring mentors. It masterfully breaks down the core principles of positive psychology and translates them into actionable strategies for the classroom. The overarching theme is clear: by focusing on character development, we can significantly enhance student engagement and academic achievement.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, guiding learners through a comprehensive journey. We begin with ‘Your Character Journey,’ an introspective look at our own strengths, which is a brilliant starting point, reminding us that character education starts with self-awareness. Following this, ‘The Science of Character’ delves into the research, providing a solid foundation for why character education is crucial and effective.
What truly sets this course apart is its practical application. ‘Teaching Character in Every Moment’ emphasizes the power of daily interactions, highlighting how intentionality in human-to-human connections can shape a positive classroom environment. The ‘Macro Structures’ module equips us with the tools to develop comprehensive plans for character education, moving beyond isolated lessons to systemic integration. Finally, ‘Talking About Character Growth’ addresses the ongoing nature of character development, encouraging a focus on continuous improvement rather than perfection, particularly with traits like grit and gratitude.
Through a mix of engaging lectures, insightful discussions, interviews with accomplished educators, and real-world footage, the course brings these concepts to life. You don’t just learn about great teaching; you see it in action. I found myself inspired to integrate character-based objectives more deliberately into my own teaching practices.
**Recommendation:** I wholeheartedly recommend ‘Teaching Character and Creating Positive Classrooms’ to all educators. It’s an investment in your students’ holistic development and, in turn, a more fulfilling teaching experience for yourself. It provides the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ to build classrooms that are not only academically rigorous but also emotionally supportive and character-rich.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/teaching-character