Barry Westling

Hi Lisa: You're right, student will work and complete assignments at different times. Anything that keeps them motivated and engaged in the topic while others are working behind or ahead is worthwile. Regards, Barry

Hi Shronda: Most institutions require some kind of objective measure of the students performance. Thats why we need to evaluate students. Many teachers will use a grading rubric, which is very objective. Regards, Barry

Hi Rick: Grading and learning are different. I feel if the students learn, then the grading system is less important. However, we work in educational institutions where some objective measure of that learning has to exist. So, grdeing systems are relative. I might suggest using a grading rubric which provides an objective method to assign points and grades. Regards, Barry

Hi Grace: Yes. Although we are doing a job, when we're prepared, it shows and makes for a meaningful lesson to the students. Oraganized and prepared means I'm "ready to go!" Regards, Barry

Hi Peter: I agree. The value of outside field trips or guest speakers provides a unique type of learning experience really unparalled by any other. These can relatively informal, or very structured. Either extreme, the students enjoy and find them quite memorable. Regards, Barry

Hi Peter: True. The Proverbs say all wisdom, knowledge, and understanding come from God. We've all learned from others, and that has formed the persons and thinking we become as teachers. Truely, good teaching is a lifelong process, as students and instruction are a dynamic entity. Regards, Barry

Hi Denise: Yes! As a planning tool, pretesting can really save time - which should result in increased efficiency. Regards, Barry

Hi Denise: I agree there's something exciting about an enthusiastic instructor. It's contagious! Regards, Barry

Hi Denise: Right. Simple, effective, and easy to implemment. I've used note paper added at the place in my curriculum where my "note to myself" comes up. At some point, when the curriculum is updated, I'll incorporate that note into the regular lesson. Using a journal may be a bit more organized - like you mentined, what worked and didn't. Regards, Barry

Hi Winston: I agree the value of these activities are quite helpful. Even though I can't seem to arrange these for every class session, I've learned who is generally receptive when I contact them, and what sites are reliable when it fits my schedule. I think these become memorable because it's someting different and oftentime sparks the interest of students who are given a glimpse of what may be for them as graduates. Regards, Barry