Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Jane: Great point. By thinking about what the student plans to do with the knowledge we impart to them can often times help keep the instructor motivated in the topic as well. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Jane: Another consideration about the use of pretests are they may help identify what type of learner your student is. By knowing what kind of learner they are, an instructor can most efficiently set up lesson plans. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Jane: In some environments, it may indeed be better not to have it. For the sake of the discussion, any expectations about assignments in general should most likely best be delivered to the students as soon as possible - like the first day of class. Doing so sets the tone from the first day, so there are less chances of misunderstanding to occur. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Marshall: In addition, one thing to consider is that ALWAYS having multiple activities is the best way to teach. Doing so might address the different types of learning styles that make up our student groups. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Paul: What some instructors do to help stay on track is always have a back-up plan or two that can be presented to the students at any time. Some feel that doing this regardless helps break up the monotony of teaching and addresses other types of learning styles. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Lacy: Good point - how detrimental to our credibility as instructors if we influence the student into thinking we don't care about their outcomes! Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Marshall: Instructors might always consider the question, "what are my students going to do with this information"? By doing so, we can relate our topics to real work situations the student might relate to. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Michael: Students definitely pick up on topics a lot better when the instructor is passionate about it. Perhaps something instructors can do for themselves is look at what they find passionate to better impart that enthusiasm to their students. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Terry: A lot of instructors have commented and feel that there is traditionally a loss of credibility for the instructor if they come across unprepared. It sounds like your teaching environment has specific expectations of the students where this might not be a large problem at your institution. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi Bob: You mention two great strategies here - having more prepared then the time allowed makes sure there will never be wasted time. Also, by fostering discussion, the students get to hear what another person thinks about the topic. Regards, Barry