Barry Westling

Myrna, Good introspective comment. I think being sincere, genuine versions of ourselves is very important. Trying to emulate another rarely works successfully. And while it's true some many have an innate, natural ability to relate a certain way, we have to remember we were all hired for our expertise, knowledge, experience, and bring our training, education , and workplace experience to the classroom setting. That's unique to each of us - none two are alike. Being natural, approachable, fair, consistent, confident,and displaying a good sense of humor are traits that will bring success to most any instructor. Yes, we can… >>>

Myrna, This is a good point. Of course we want to provide a safe setting for field trips, and our guest speakers need to be appraised of any special campus requirements (name badge, dress and grooming, use of personal property). Some programs do require more of their instructors and institutions for non-classroom activities. Of course, once all of the liability and legal concerns are addressed, I have found the field trip to be one of the most memorable and enjoyable activities students state enhanced their learning and instructional time at school. I say it over and over again, these activities… >>>

Andrea, Sure, that's fine. I think having a bonus question on an exam that allows a student to demonstrate knowledge beyond what the instructor asks for is not a bad idea and, in fact, I routinely do that. I think a bonus question, available to all students is a bit different from extra credit. Some may say it's just semantics. But I think it's different. What you and I are suggesting adds to the assessment of learning, while EC tends to just give away points with little merit or contribution to demonstrated learning. I will also drop the lowest quiz… >>>