Barry Westling

Hi Edna: Yes, I think the module touched on this and I think it's an excellent way to get stuednts refocused or just engaged in an effective and productive manner for their class. Keeping them on task while in the study/discussion group can be challenging at times, but a good teacher will circulate about and ensure the discussion id on target. Regards, Barry

Hi Vitoria: Great. If you have time to do this, pretesting can be helpful for planning. I've found that I don't have time or can schedule this tool every class, and that's ok. But when I do, even the students feel good about the activity because it reveals a preveiw of what's comining up in the course and that can add a sense of excitement if the class is interesting and perteninent to their course of studey. Reagrds, Barry

Hi Victoria: Good points. We can be examples and by doing so, hold the students to similar standards for preparedness and being ready for class. Regards, Barry

Hi Karla: Good point. I have found some students who have only a vague idea of what they want to do when the complete my program which seems strange in a way. But then I think about how some students arn't used to planning ahead, or even planning. So something like a eye-opening field trip is a good idea for that reason, and dozens more. Regards, Barry

Hi Rebecca: Insurance is a good example of how teachers use EC. There are things insurance doesn't and can't cover. For instance, EC can't substitute for necessary learning or essential material that is key to the course. This would be more important in some professions than others, obviously. Regards, Barry

Hi Rebecca: Good plan. Variety keeps students interested and they are more likely to stay focused on their lessons when they're paying attention (vs day dreaming or mind wandering). Regards, Barry

Hi Karla: Spometimes it makes more sense to just have sound assignment requirements and assure that all students are given the same opportunity to earn the same amount of points, all without the use of extra credit. In short, sometimes, EC can get in the way more than help. Regards, Barry

Hi Karla: Group discussion can be a good change up when students have reached their limit when delivery by another method has been reached. The biggest challenge with group discussion is keeping students on task during the discussion period. Regards, Barry

Hi Marian: Yes, and getting that "spirit of what can be for me" is a very strong motivational attribute! Regards, Barry

Hi Laura: Yes, employment is a hoped-for outcome. To me, a good way to think about learning "goals" is how can we be effective in transfering knowledge to our students. If we do that correctly, their education will further their pursuit of successful careers. Regards, Barry