Barry Westling

Hi Kimberly: You know, I once had a boss ask me why I waiting until the last minute to make copies? (it was 8:30 am and the class met at 1:00 pm). They expected everything ready at least 1-2 days before a scheduled class, a week before would be even better. I felt like that was a bit excessive and unrealistic but that was their expectation. I'll tell you, after working under that environment, I got used to getting my classes ready way ahead of time. Because of that experience, my time is more even and less stressful because I… >>>

Hi Shelina: I'm sure this probably gets your students refocused. I think a good back up plan is something teachers can keep on the shelf for those times when "everything is going wrong". Missing equipment; half the class is absent due to inclement whether; computer or LCD is not working; can't find a bulb for the overhead; textbooks didn't arrive - these are just a few of the dozens of things that can happen to ruin the plans for the day. So a good back up plan can be pulled off the shelf, is relatively low tech, and can be… >>>

Hi Shelina: You've got a point that some topics are more difficult to use the field trip or guest speaker. This activity is a tool, and as a builder, not every tool is used all the time. That said, for medical terminology, here are a couple of idea for speakers: 1. Try to find an experienced medical records transcriber who could share numerours blunders, misspellings, and maybe even a few humorous blunders they've encountered over the years. 2. Identify an experienced medical professional who has experienced years of reading poor handwriting, incorrect spellings, and examples where incorrect terminology led to… >>>

Hi David: I agree teacher evaluations by students are essential, if that's the the meaning of your post. Only when there is an opportunity for students to convey their feelings, comments, objections or praise, reflection on the learning that occured, or suggestions for impovements can real progress occur. What went wonderful last class may have a different expression the next go around. Students also evaluate us by our actions on a daily basis: Are we prepared and ready for class; do we appear to know the material; are we approacable and willing to answer questions; do we convey an attitude… >>>

Hi Kate: In a way, the instructor is a tool, and the tool should never be the focus, rather the purpose the tool provides. For stories, I think these should relate to the course content, related work settings, or program tests or professional certifications. Otherwise, as you've implied, they waste the students time. But in all of it, when courses are given by teachers who espouse a sense of energy, excitement, enthusiam and passion, portraying the course content in a positive manner, students will naturally want to participate, and it will be easier for teachers to engage their students in… >>>