Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Camille, I think any time we can involve more senses in the learning process, better retention of information and student learning outcomes will occur. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Leticia, Instructors like you who express passion and enthusiam about what they're teaching make for more enjoyable and memorable classes. I think when we care it conveys a notion that students pick up on, and nearly always appreciate. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Leticia, Sounds great! I find looking at past notes an interesting activity, especially information I noted about students at the beginning of their t6raining and and tracking any notes I made near the end. Sometimes a trend is noted, other times students turn out doing surprising well. Reflecting is always good. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Myrna, Immediate feedback is definetly a plus. As an example, many online courses use electronic processes for most everything. These students depend on knowing their staus due to the vitural absence of a real-time instructor. So whenever we can duplicate real time feedback, most students appreciate it. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Dorian, Yes, giving important feedback can induce students to bear down and get busy with improvements, or (in it's absence), contribute to students giving up. Our caring can make a big difference. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Doris, I agree. I avoid this focus-on-grades approach to course instruction. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Myrna, If so, in my opinion, this needs to be stated at the beginning of the course, be offered to all, and should not skew grade results in any significant amount. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Jessica , This is an unsettling commentary on the mindset and culture our younger generation feels is comfortable - and acceptable! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Dorian, I like that "stop what you're doing" part. If something isn't working for whatever reasons, sometimes it's better to just sort of reset things, and get a head on discussion going that serves as a wake up to the setting. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Myrna, Rest assured, a tincture of time and experience will translate into superior selection opportunites that will create efficient and effective lessons that are both memorable and enjoyable for your students. Barry Westling