Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Marcia: True, personality is an important factor, especially if the instructor is passionate about the topic. Keep in mind the negative end of that extreme - it's equally important to keep emotional interests out of the class as they can serve to distract the student from the learning too. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Colleen: Using a journal can assist the instructor class to class and semester to semester. It allows the instructor to keep track of what worked and what didn't. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Gregory: In addition to motivating, it may give them a glimpse of the types of changes that are needed to be more successful. The most common mistake students make is with studying. Either not spending enough time, or spending too much time on one subject. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Michele: Daily organizational techniques can make all the difference. Many instructors have daily practices for this very reason. For example, writing out the daily objective, then reviewing that objective at the end of the class. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Marcia: Additionally, it provides the instructor a chance to see how students look at problems and new information. By seeing what type of student you have, an instructor can more adequately prepare to impart the information in an efficient way. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Marcia: Strong point - this again illustrates the ultimate goal of teaching - imparting the information to the student. What is equally important is keeping this in mind when navigating through tough material. Doing so may result in modification of lesson plans from time to time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Marcia: Perhaps it is not always the best idea to allow extra credit. In some professions, there are definitely no second chances. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Marcia: By allowing students to know their progress provides the opportunity for them to make on-course corrections. Ultimately,the most important factor is the learning itself. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Lenore: That's right - the most important factor is that the student learns the main message the instructor is shooting for. Sometimes, this idea can become lost in the quagmire of preparation and lesson planning. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Hi Marlene: Good point - it is important to keep the students engages so they don't end up missing important information about a lesson plan. You also illustrate that in today's market, there are many methods to deliver information in the classroom that doesn't necessarily involve lecture. Regards, Barry