Barry Westling

Christopher, Yes, longer classes really need to have that prep time completed before class starts, as all the class time needs to be ready and student learning outcomes geared for a full and productive class. And that won't happen automatically, it'll take planning, effort, and good use of media and resources. Barry Westling

Jacqueline, Another aspect is the degree of enthusiasm, interest and excitement an instructor can create. Everyone like to be in an upbeat and creative class setting. A lot of positive energy can make for very enjoyable classes. Barry Westling

Jacqueline, A great goal to aspire to. Practical application of skills and knowledge. Barry Westling

Jacqueline, Right. The effort and time to prepare is rewarded by improved respect and trust by students to their instructor. Barry Westling

Lisa, Sounds good. Another variation of this theme is previewing, a technique where, prior to actully presenting the topic, the instructor has the students preview the topic, such as examinining key points in the text, distributing handouts and stating their purpose, and perhaps providing an overview that identifies key points that are important. By previewing, the student approaches the lesson in a much more enhanced position, reather than just starting out cold. Barry Westling

Darcey, Great! Sharing student performance status, whether electronic or print-out version is absoutely needed in order to help students steer in the right direction, making small (or large) adjustments to successfully arrive at their desired destination by course end. And I think having some personal contact along the way is very helpful, as it shares both information and sentiment that the instructor cares about their student's success. Barry Westling

Mabel, Great plan and glad you have the resources aligned to offer accurate information to your students. Barry Westling

Gregrey, Right, just something simple that can measure (briefly) some measure of prior learning. Sometimes, saving these and handing them back at the end of the course shows how far they've come. Also, I never grade pretests, as the information is mainly for me. Barry Westling

Mabel, I see your p[point. Pretests don't have to be formal, comprehensive, or complicated, Just a brief assessment that lets the instructor know where their students are at in their prior learning. Barry Westling

Gregrey, Right. Many employers have expectations beyond just the specific work duties, and these involve the professional or HR aspects of an employee. If we can give that in addition to job knowledge and skills, that'll be terrific! Barry Westling