Barry Westling

Jamie, The two benefits I receive are the ability to acquire some bit of past information I noted that I need for a current class, and the reflection on observations I made from earlier classes. This is invaluable information that otherwise might have been lost altogether. Barry Westling

Kimberly, Right. Students have a need and deserve to know their progress. Both instructor and student are wanting successfulness, so informing them helps achieve that mission. Barry Westling

James, Terrific! Busy work provides a different knid of learning, and it makes more more interesting and enjoyable class sessions too. Barry Westling

Angel, Really, both instructor and student have goals and needs, Student centered instruction works towards meeting both, and usually requires both to make adjustments so that both needs are met. Barry Westling

Jeff, The bigget thing about student centered learning is the connection between the student and instructor is strengthened. I always have a plan of action for my classes. But I am also willing to modify imy plan to meet individual needs as may be necessary if I notice that one of my students needs special help. There are many variations to student centered learning, the one I described is only one. Barry Westling

Susan, Yes, students need resgular reinforcement that they are on the right track, or if if help is needed, earlier notification can facilitate improvements needed to get back on track. Personal attention works best, as care and concern can be conveyed along with encouragment, which is more difficult to do in an email or via electronic gradebooks. Barry Westling

Brian, For me, training students is preparation for the work setting and I like to model my class policies as an employer might. Therefore, since a worker is not rewarded for being on time or maintaining good attendance, I choose not to give it for that reason as well. However, it makes sense to dock students for frequent tardiness, punctuality or absences. Barry Westling

Brian, Yes, it's a partnership, and as you say, both parties have to be willing to work hard to make everything come together in the way everyone wants. Barry Westling

Brian, True, we were all hired because our technical skills qualified us to instruct, so it would be essential that instructors know their stuff. Many professions are in a state of change from time to time, but for sure, learning to be a good teacher is an constant work in progress. Barry Westling

Jocelyn, Great rationale and argument in favor of incorporating field trips into your courses. I agree these outside events are stimulating and tend to motivate students in a way unlike most other activities. And the break from the routine is usually a welcomed occurrence by the students as well. Every speaker or outside event can potentially put a slightly different spin on selected topics in the course, and that is like a value-added component. Barry Westling