Barry Westling

Hi Helen: Some institutions have moved away from allowing the use of extra-credit due to some issues that arise. If a student can pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of the primary concepts, that may end up resulting in angry feelings from other students who have worked hard to earn a solid grade. Regards, Barry

Hi Alex: One thing we can say about the overall goal of education is to help our students become more effective decision makers - in school, in their careers, and in life. Regards, Barry

Hi Helen: Field trips and guest speakers are a great way to renew interest in the material you’ve been discussing in class. It gives the student’s a chance to speak with people (possibly in the field they are training for), and gain a different and new perspective about the topics at hand. Also, they might get the chance to ask some questions about the topics you’ve discussed and get a better understanding overall. Regards, Barry

Hi Alex: Some institutions have moved away from allowing the use of extra-credit due to some issues that arise. If a student can pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of the primary concepts, that may end up resulting in angry feelings from other students who have worked hard to earn a solid grade. Regards, Barry

Hi Michelle: The problem with consistent disorganization from an instructor is the potential loss of credibility with the students, and the message it may send, which is “I’m not concerned enough about your learning to be organized for you”. Regards, Barry

Hi Sara: Some institutions have moved away from allowing the use of extra-credit due to some issues that arise. If a student can pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of the primary concepts, that may end up resulting in angry feelings from other students who have worked hard to earn a solid grade. Regards, Barry

Hi Sara: The nice thing about back-up plans is that they can be used - no matter what, as a means of changing up the energy of the class time. This can be a good way of helping to keep our learning environments as robust as possible. Regards, Barry

Hi Sara: One thing to keep in mind is the idea of BALANCE when discussing or thinking about personality in the classroom. If there is too much of any personality style, be it too humorous, or too strict, etc., this may serve only to distract the student from a full understanding of the course material. Regards, Barry

Hi Leuquiten: Another great thing about using a teaching journal is that it might help reveal items that need improvement in the lesson prior to the next go ‘round. Also, improvements can be made in both what has worked, and what hasn’t. Regards, Barry

Hi Brandon: One of the benefits of using pretests is they may help reveal what kind of learning style your student uses. Knowing this may help you create more effective lesson plans. Regards, Barry