Check Out IML’s Helpful Docs Page for Quick Courseware Answers

Online courseware opens up many possibilities for instructors and students. But those possibilities can lead to questions. That’s why IML created the Helpful Docs page.

On the Helpful Docs page, you’ll find answers to many courseware questions as well as links, procedures, and other resources to help you get the most out of your online courseware.

Act Now for Great Savings on IML’s Auto Tech Courseware

There’s still time to sign up for an unbeatable deal on IML’s Auto Tech Online Courseware.

To introduce our new Auto Tech courseware, IML has offered access to all our Auto Tech online curriculum modules for the price of the four main areas plus the introductory module.

Effective Time Management Benefits Instructors and Students

It is difficult to find time to teach every student to the level of knowledge and skills needed for a successful career. Effective time management is essential. Before class starts, the instructor must be prepared with everything he or she needs. Once class begins, the instructor must use the time effectively. Giving students a reading assignment during class is not an effective use of time. Instead, give required reading assignments outside of scheduled class time. Below are additional ways to get the most out of class time.

Try IML’s Auto Tech Online Courseware Free for 30 Days

IML recently closed the extended introductory preview of its new Automotive Technology Online Courseware, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try out the courseware in your classroom and shop for free.

IML is now offering trial accounts free for 30 days. As with the earlier preview, new trial accounts will give you full access to the complete courseware package. Check out the courseware and grade book features, add your own resources, or enroll students. It’s your customizable courseware site!

Don’t Spend Too Much Time on the Same Topic

To beat boredom and maintain student interest, break up and mix up large subject areas into short, clearly defined sessions. Of course the actual time needed for each topic will vary depending on a number of factors, but educational research has shown that student retention declines rapidly after more than two weeks on one topic. Spending two weeks or less on a topic usually works well for me, and I rarely give students assignments that last more than three weeks.

Instructor Report: Bringing Online Courseware to the Auto Tech Classroom

By Roger Calderon

On about the third day of class, I have my students go to the computer lab. They have been handed a sheet that tells them how to log in and create a profile. I also have it set up so that the profile has questions that pertain to my program, so they are required to fill out that information at sign-up so I can pool that information for later use.

Once they have their log-in, they select the classroom to enroll in. I usually have all other classrooms blocked by a keyword to prevent students from logging into another classroom. I also have students modify their profile with pictures and statements to make it their own. They are told that it all needs to be school appropriate.

Remember the Difference Between Career Education and Training

When a student enrolls in an Automotive Technology program at the secondary level or at the college level, they are enrolling in programs designed to build the foundation of a long career. They will study theory, related science, math, and communications arts, and they will learn about professionalism that will prepare them to adapt to the changes that will occur in the career field.

Tie Automotive Technology to Students’ Other Courses

Explain automotive systems and functions as they relate to math and science principles. Whenever possible, give students opportunities to apply what they have learned or are learning in their academic classes to their work in automotive technology. This often results in the students wanting to learn more, both from their automotive classes and from their academic classes.

By Robin Ferguson

Keep Students Busy

It’s important to keep students busy 100 percent of the time that they’re in class. Every student must be given assignments that require them to stay on task and challenge them to complete the work in the time available.

Don’t Give Up on Students

Students come from various backgrounds. They have different aptitudes, attitudes, and interests. Not all students who enroll in an Automotive Technology course plan to pursue a career in the field. But if they gain knowledge, build skills, and become confident, and if they enjoy the work, many will find a related career.