Karla Swanson, a Computer Information Technology instructor at Navarro College Corsicana in Texas, is Karla Swanson
How do I love MindTap? Let me count the ways. Over the past 3 years, MindTap has been a great learning tool. While I could go on for hours about the differences between publishers platforms, today’s topic is my favorite MindTap features: Highlighting the eTextbook or adding notes.
Highlighting Important Text
Highlighting the eTextbook has been a game changer in my teaching. I also love adding notes to students. In my Intro to Computing courses I teach a mix between online, face-to-face and hybrid courses. Students can use the highlight feature to jump into the eTextbook, even though they had previously ignored the links in the learning path. My students are not lazy. However, they often miss the reading because they prefer to skip to the rolling week view to see the due assignments instead of diving into the entire lesson. They can quickly scan or skim my lecture highlights by logging into the eTextbook link.
Some students become overwhelmed by college reading expectations. My students love the highlight feature. Students reported feeling more successful after completing the skill-based training, were more involved in class discussions, and received higher grades for their projects due to the eTextbook highlight feature.
Add Notes to the Text
The ability to add notes is a defining feature. My course has seen a rise in student success, especially in the Word Modules. Module 2 is an example of how I can help students succeed in MLA format. My computer class allows them to improve their writing skills. This is a great thing for their English teachers. Students will be more educated if they are able to reinforce their skills and goals in multiple courses.
Online and hybrid learning requires the ability to add notes. Students feel more engaged in the curriculum when they can add additional information even if they aren’t in a face-to-face class.
Students are more in control of their learning when they have seamless access to the technology. These eTextbook features have helped my students achieve more, and that’s why they are my favorite!
Watch Karla’s tutorial video to see her favorite MindTap features.