Barry Westling

Hi Michael: Good points, especially "changing some of the interaction between instuctor and students and among the students". When their instruction is viewed from a real world perspective, that experience can be very powerful and motivating. Regards, Barry

Hi Cindy: I'm all for giving make-up or repeat tests to assist students perform better. And I'd agree that students will usually appreciate that act and will feel better about their performance. But awarding credit for these activities is a different matter and care is needed to not offset the integrity of the grading system. Regards, Barry

Hi Cindy: Yes, and also helps the teacher plan any changes or adjustments needed based on the results of the pretesting. Regards, Barry

Hi Karen: Good description. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that in addition to all you've stated, a teacher must be willing to perform all of these important activities. Believe it or not, many teachers are not willing to put forth that extra effort that will assist their students down the road to a successful outcome. They may be unwilling, unknowing, or just plainly don't care. Unfortunate I'd say. Regards, Barry

Hi Emily: I like that idea too. I think it helps bring to the students mind that at some point they will be serving the public, as opposed to school assignments and practice sessions only. Kind of a reality check that sugessts, "hey, maybe I could be more thorough, or complete, or creative, or...whatever". Regards, Barry

Hi Nathan: Your animated motions and movement is a good idea, helps keep students focused, and makes the class more interesting. Breaking class up into parts will serve well for keeping students attention. Having a topic or activity that can always be done with little preparation is a simple back-up plan that's easy to initiate. Regards, Barry

Hi Karen: It sounds like this is bonus points for grade adjustment, as opposed to extra credit - doing something extra not required and getting credit for it while not doing required assisnments. I think there's a subtle difference between bonus assignments and extra credit, primarily because with EC, substitution for required assignments are allowed. Regards, Barry

Hi Emily: Yup! The personal touch is very effective especially if it's sincere and the student believes you have their interests at heart. Refocusing can be really simple: "Suzie, what to you think about xxx?". Now, Susie's paying attention again. Regards, Barry

Hi Emily: Great! Glad you've found something practical to benefit from ED105. Regards, Barry

Hi Penny: I think you're right that we have an opportunity each day to demonstrate "best practices" in being organized, resources prepared, and ready to go with enthusiasm and interest. Students will pick up on how well the teacher is prepared, so we have a golden opportunity to be super role models. Regards, Barry