Barry Westling

Hi Nancy: I think we all use what know works best, based on what we know about ourselves. There's always room to improve in specific areas, but if a teacher is comforatble with who they are, that sense of ease and delivery style will just naturally come across, which should help students relax more while in class. Regards, Barry

Hi Nancy: Pretesting does provide a lot of valuable information, as you've indicated. I benefit by knowing how to plan, adjust, modify, or re-emphasize essential teaching points in my curriculum. Some students get excited about what the upcoming class is going to contain, while others receive insight on what their going to need to be prepared to study for. I reall think it's a win-win situation. Regards, Barry

Hi Nancy: You've articulated some good points. Automatic grading systems that students have access to via computer or the internet are becoming more popular and abundant. With these, students can view their cumulative grade at any point in time. But not every institution uses these yet, and I think there's something to be said about the personal connection a teacher can foster by meeting wth them 1-on-1, and frequently. It can provide an opportunity to convey that the teacher cares about the students success. Regards, Barry

Hi Kate: Good. Keeping students informed is like watching your gas guage on a long trip. Attention is needed frequently and if overlooked for too long, less than wonderful results are likely. Regards, Barry

Hi Cheyney: You've provided a good example. I don't always do pretesting because to do it right takes some time, planning, and anaylsis of the results. I too use the results for planning. If I don't have enough time to do it right, then I don't even want to bother with it. As a tool, I think this is one of the more underused tools at the disposal of the teacher, and more should think about experimenting with it. Regards, Barry

Hi Cheyney: Seasoning a lesson with a touch of humor is like adding seasoning to a meal. A little bit adds flavor and compliments the meal. Too much can spoil it and leave a bad memory. Without it, something seems missing. So, humor is like the seasoning in a meal. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: It's been said it takes a lifetime to build a good repuitation and just a moment to ruin one. Same idea. Trust and respect have to be earned. Since this is our job I think we should what we can to shine on every front. Regards, Barry

Hi Cheyney: I think the culinary teaching experience is a little bit unique and you are very correct that field trips where the students can view food preparation in the real world setting is an invaluable experience. Regards, Barry

Hi Erik: I think the examples you give are graet, and I believe they are applicale to most classroom situations. Variety in media choices keeps interest and facilitates retention of needed information. Regards, Barry

Hi Nicole: Assignments are given to maximise the learning experience. Regards, Barry