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Course number: CRJ 101: Introduction to Research Methods in Criminal Justice

Leading the first day, Course expectations, Syllabus

Reflection on Instructional Change:

The practices shared by the experts and faculty in this module that I implemented were a welcome message and a brief self introduction. I created an announcement on canvas to welcome them. I also posted a discussion where I introduced myself and asked that they do the same. They are able to share their introductions in the form of a video, ppt, discussion, etc. I selected these because they seemed like it would be a good way to have students feel welcomed and feel like they know me and each other a bit better.

Implementing this practices helped me learn more about my students. It also seemed that students responded well to the introduction activities. They formed study groups based on the introduction interactions/discussions. It seemed to have a good impact on creating a sense of community. Overall, the activities seemed to help students feel more connected to the course, instructor, and peers.

All of the FLC activities were helpful. I found that the most useful was the implementation resource page for each module. I downloaded all of the files and created separate folders for them based on the modules. I was able to share resources with peers who were unable to complete this FLC. I can always go back to the resources when I need a refresher. The CTL "Observe and Analyze" was a good way to learn what peers are doing in their classes and how those activities are either working well or where they need some adjustments. It was helpful to receive feedback on the activities I am doing in my classes. One of my peers offered ideas on ways to improve my current introduction activity.

One "takeaway" from the "Observe and Analyze Session" was to identify peers who may also be working on improving their course structure or student experiences. In doing so, I can learn about what works well with their classes and gather tips/advice. It's also helpful to learn which activities don't work quite as well or need to be modified.

Evidence of Instructional Change

Here is the online version of the introduction.

Since I did not obtain permission to share their work, I will describe the reaction instead. All students commented on the discussion thread. A couple of them shared photos of their pets.

Several of them connected because of their current workplace or career aspirations.

Practice and Reflect on: Promoting a Civil Learning environment

LE2_ Practice & Reflect I - Reflection Assignment.pdf

Course Syllabus

FLC syllabus updated 2.0-1.docx

Faculty Bio

Dr. Mercedes Valadez is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Criminal Justice at California State University, Sacramento. S Her research focuses on immigration issues, inequality, and race, ethnicity, and justice. .

This work was supported by:

National Science Foundation Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEM Zone DUE 1832335

CSU Office of the Chancellor Academic Affairs grant for Faculty Professional Development

US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEM4Equity P031C210012

*Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation or the US Department of Education.

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