Barry Westling

Hi Bob: In addition, by allowing the student the chance to see where they are, they can choose to make changes in their study habits if need be. Most instructors would undoubtedly be in agreement with your point of view. Regards, Barry

Hi Terry: That sounds like an effective method. It sounds similar to the philosophy that many instructors sometimes use in their instruction style - using multiple activities to try to have a more robust learning environment. Regards, Barry

Hi Terry: You've touched on an important use of these tools - they give the instructor a chance to consider what kind of student learner they have. In a similar way that you've described, instructors can modify their lesson planning to be most efficient. Regards, Barry

Hi Terry: By allowing the student the chance of seeing where they stand on a regular basis gives them an opportunity to make on course corrections for a more successful outcome. Regards, Barry

Hi Christine: As instructors, we often have to consider where a student is going with this knowledge, and what they're going to use it for. This is especially true in specific fields that have a clinical nature to them. Regards, Barry

Hi Christine: That's it exactly - these tools can show the instructor both the academic standing of a student, and possibly reveal what kind of learner they are. Regards, Barry

Hi Melissa: I completely understand that type of frustration. I've noticed the same thing when a group of students gets near the end of their training. The one thing I've personally found to break students out of that stagnation is personal stories and anecdotes that are related to what they will be seeing on the job. Also, having a course in professionalism can sometimes serve to remind the students what they've chosen to be might be helpful as well. Regards, Barry

Hi Bee: Rubrics are an excellent method of defining expectations for grading, and serves as a final resource for the instructor should they ever have the need to discuss a grade with the student. Regards, Barry

Hi Maria: Having passion for a topic and enthusiasm is great, as long as that is balanced with keeping emotional interests aside. Too much passion can possibly distract the student from the topic. Regards, Barry

Hi Maria: Correct - we see both the academic standing of the student, and possibly what kind of learner they are. Regards, Barry