Barry Westling

Hi Diedra: For me, the academic and skill requiremnets are one thing. My education, training, and experience add to that. Together, the goal of being job ready is achieved (that's the goal). Regards, Barry

Hi Diedra: The most basic demonstration of care and concern our students can feel is when the recognize our preparation for classes. Regards, Barry

Hi Lacey: Taking a more scientific approach to respond, SLO's define what it is a student is supposed to know when the complete a course, based on the course objectives, media and lessons given, and measured assessments. SLO's are the core of what the student should know. Regards, Barry

Hi Lacey: Providing student status information frequently and early on gives the student both the information they need and the time needed for correction. Waiting too late to make needed corections gives less opportunity to offer hope and encouragement. Regards, Barry

Hi Seth: Not all teachers do (nor should) journalize. I think a journal is for those that may benefit from reflecting on past situations, student interactions, or course content, and want a record of their thoughts. There are different types of journals and various reasons why teachers will use them. It does take a discipline to faithfully comment. But there are other surrogate methods of achieving similar results by various notekeping activities, from simple to extensive. Regards, Barry

Hi Isabel: Sometimes a good guest speaker will relate or share information a teacher has been emphasizing and that really adds credibility (trust and respect for the teacher). Seeing what their soon to be work world is like can be very inspirational and motivational, translating to better performance in the classroom, too. Regards, Barry

Hi Alison: Also, I have found some students may only have a very vague idea about some of the working aspects they're being for. A good field trip can be powerful in opening eyes, motivating and inspiring, and giving a renewed enthusiasm about their study so as to be better ready for the world of work. Regards, Barry

Hi Seth: Newer technology (smart board) doesn't mean older technology (overhead, whiteboad) is not useful. Like any craft, we have tools. We want to choose the tools that work best for a given job. I do think adding variety helps keep students interests and allows the instructor to focus their lesson better. Regards, barry

Hi Seth: Good planning allows the flexibilty and freedom for the creativeness of the instructor to manifest. Good classes don't happen by themeselves, it takes planning, and student usually notice that. Regards, Barry

Hi Harriet: When we're prepared, this sends a message to the students we care about them and their education. They appreciate that time, effort, thought, and planning went into preparing for class, and the will appreciate that. Regards, Barry