Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

William, However you set up your grading, the thing I always emphasize is regardless of what system I use, I want to be sure I am being fair, and that true student learning is being measured. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

William, Pretesting can be whatever and however the instructor wants to structure it. A pretest could be only a couple questions. As to managing the "grading", some instructors might (anonymously) use the pretest as an open class assignment, and all might benefit from what information is obtained. Instructors are creative folks and I'm sure there are ways to work in a few extra minutes - if the instructor sees value in the exercise. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Linda, For sure, students will respond to someone they know sincerely cares about their success. So, like a parent and child, even if the instructor is strict, or firm, or hardened, if the they are able to convey genuine care and concern for the students success, students will likely recognize that trait, more than the gruff exterior because they realize the instructor truly cares. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Linda, Yes, and when we lead by example, that requires a regular and consistent example that can't be sporadic or just "occasionally organized. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

David, Nice rationale for an important mindset towards readiness for classes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Maureen, Right. It helps in planning and making adjustments to our predetermined plan in order to meet the student need. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Maureen, Most of my students and colleagues would probably guess that I'm an extrovert, based on my manner, demeanor, and affect while in the classroom and in meetings. But in truth, I'm an introvert, and consider myself quite shy. Yet, when I consider my students' desire to learn, my inhibitions are put aside and I go all out to try my best to get them to succeed. So for me, my care and concern for student learning takes precedence over my personal traits and preferences. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Maureen, Students appreciate and benefit as the result of the time, effort and energy instructors put into their classes in order to be ready for their classes. It also provides a comfort to see their instructors are ready to instruct, to help, and to be available for their students. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

William, Some GE instructors gather key information about the content of the career courses and then use that information to support the GE need in order to help learn ...XYZ...in their career course. In other words, they make a practical, real world example career students can relate to. Another related tatic is to share that employers want and need individuals who can think critically, speak and communicate effectively, and interact in the work-setting where the necessticies of commerce requires individuals who can perform math, write, and relate to a variety of indivudals. If students can see the "whats in it… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

David, Since the journal is a personal account of comments, observations, personal notes, it really does help the instructor determine what could be improved on, and perhaps contriburte to a strategic map and gameplan on how to approach achieving those needed improvements. Barry Westling