Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

More of a question than a comment here... What about open book tests? Are open book tests that require a student to resource, read and understand information to correctly answer a test question valid? What might some pros or cons of this type of testing be?

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

Classroom Assessment Techniques

I plan on using the provided link to find CATs that can be used to fill the last 20 minutes or so of class time. I also plan to share with my students the information learned in this session about the higher number of positions that are lost due to poor communication skills rather than poor skill level in their trade.

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

Questioning is hard work...

I've found creating a list of questions that fit the topic of the day to be helpful. I can use the list to select a question to start a discussion, rather than having to create the question "on the spot". This seems to work well for me and the only requires a small amount of prep time.

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

Learning styles...reading

I find many of my students don't want to read to find needed information in a technical manual. I have to use the threat of a grade deduction to force many to use a manual and to read a proceedure before performing a task. Does anyone have a tip on how to motivate these students to grab a manual and find the information on their own? I feel they are only using a manual because I'm grading them and when there's no threat of grading (when they enter the workforce) they'll just rush into the activity w/o reading the proceedure… >>>

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

on offering positive feedback

I especially liked the information on offering positive feedback. We can easily focus on moving from group to group looking for things being done incorrectly and then demonstrate the proper method of doing something, basically, looking for things that are wrong. Now, I'll be sure to look for things that are right and then offer positive feedback on it.

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

on "Getting Started"

Day one may be the most important day of the entire class, as we get just one chance to make a first impression. Following the six Ps will help to ensure we leave a good first impression. Purposeful Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

on preparing early and carefully

Carefull and timely preperation takes the stress out of teaching. Less stress for a well prepared instructor and less stress for students in his/her class.

Michael Benfer

Discussion Comment

Instructor Roles

Instructors who lead the student's first class on campus have an important role in setting expectations. It's very important the instructor models professionalism in every aspect of student interaction; this sets the expectation of professionalism for the entire lentgh of the program. Students who follow the instructor's example and 'model' this level of professionalism have a good chance of being successful. Instructors who are rather loose (language, punctuality, dress, etc.) almost set the students up for failure, as the student will have a significantally more difficult time on campus and in the workplace if they 'model' these examples of unprofessional… >>>