Barry Westling

Hi Maimoona: You've provided a good perspective on goal and purpose. I agree application is at the core of teaching students. Regards, Barry

Hi Sophia: I agree EC should be used sparingly. Too much skews the grading system and may be unfair to good students who don't need credit to earn a decent grade. Barry, Barry

Hi Sophia: Timing the delivery of essential course content does take some plannng, and at first, perhaps some trial and error. Regards, Barry

Hi Sophia: When I'm prepared, I feel I'm ready to handle all portions of the lesson with confidence and available to address the unexpected, such as student questions or keeping on target. Regards, Barry

Hi Jennifer: You've made a good point about keeping the stress level to a minimum. Certainly, when students face the facts, it's bound to allay some fear (stress). Regards, Barry

Hi Paul: I agree about getting students motivated and excited. Anytime we can get the students in that frame of mind is a good thing. Regards, Barry

Hi Mary: If these are bonus questions I can see why students would want tke advatage of them. EC, to me, implies getting credit above and beyond what is assigned. I think students should not be given EC for work that is a substitute for the regular couyrse assignments. It just doesn't seem fair to the more diligent students tat complete all of their assignments, regardless of the grade they receive. But that's just my perspective. Regards, Barry

Hi Jason: Right! Nobody likes surprise. I also like to take time to connect with the student (to the degree they're comfortable) when I'm sharing academic information. I think it helps build a stronger relationship with the student, which helps the trust and respect factor. Regards, Barry

Hi Bonnielee: Extra credit can be a blessing or a curse. I think if an assignment is beneficial and helpful, it ought to be included in the regular curriculum and graded accordingly. I also think EC should never be substituted for a regular class assignment. That is, unsubmitted regular assignment, EC assignment makes up the difference. Thats just unfair to the diligigent students who complete all of their assignments. Regards, Barry

Hi Mary: I agree. And I think these pre-tests can be designed in such a way that they're fun and interesting to the whole class, but revealing information about where the students are in their preparation. So it's kind of a "win-win". Regards, Barry