Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Cecilia, These tenets are sure-fire methods to promote trust and confidence in an instructors abilities in the eyes of their students. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Ali, Yes. Some instructors will use grading rubrics, which I like because they provide grading information in advance and both instructor and student are bound by the guidelines. And having information in advance can also help direct students in their assignments if they know how and what is expected and how the grading will occur. It's great when there are no surprises about an assignment or course grade was derived. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Megan, It's a fact, our basic role is to teach new students information we have gained from training and education, work experience, and knowledge of what is expected in the work setting. It's our abilities that we are hired, and technological aids only supplement the basic thing we do. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Kelly, Circulating about does add a dimension that the instructor is in control, is interested in students staying focused, and allows a bit more engagement than if they merely stood and lectured in front of the room. Questioning students where they sit is a bit more personal than calling on students from the the front or back of the classroom. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Nicole, Great. Preparing for the unexpected or needed change-up in delivery to keep students engaged is a terrific way to maintain focus, keep interest, and insure all of the allocated time is used effectively. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Nicole, As for PPT's I've found them as a visual guide for my discussion works much better than supllying all or most of the key information they should know. There are better ways for students to read material than to try to condense it to a PPT. But for illustrations, diagrams, photgraphs, charts and graphs, there's nothing better as a way to explain an idea to students. PPT can also bring procedural, instrumentation, geographical, or technical information to the classroom that does not normally have these resources available to them. Finally, embedded video's can enhance a presentation very nicely. Barry… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Nicole, I think students look to us for direction, and even subtle changes from the routine are noticed by students. If we want and expect full particiation and focus by students, we need to do our part each day, every day. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Student learning outcomes

Kelly, For me, student centered learning allows me to focus more specifically to my students, understanding how they learn and how best I can reach them. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Kelly, Yes, there is a sweet spot when everything is going well and and it's feels great to be in a classroom, doing what we do. Thank goodness, as there are just as many days that are crazy when nothing seems to go well. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Ali, True. Organization helps keep the different and varied tasks required by instructors managed and prioritized. Barry Westling