Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Eli: I agree. Tours and guest speakers add a dimension to the classoom expierence that really can't be duplicated. The connection from the classroom theory to real world application is wonderfully emphasized when these activities are planned. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Caroline: When students walk into a a clean, organized and inviting classroom it helps set the tone for how the classroom experience is going to be and creates an anticipation by the students of a throrough learning experience is about to begin. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Debbie: Timing and getting good tours and speakers often takes time and patience, but most certainly is worthwile adjunct student activity. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Debbie: Frequent assessment is good for the reasons you describe. Retention of needed course material is always a challenge so anything that reinforces that is worthwhile. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Student learning outcomes

Hi Christopher: Student Learning Outcomes (SLO's) can be a general term or a specific model all courses follow in a given curriculum. All curriculum should feed to the SLO's, anything else there's time for is okay, but at least the student is assured of getting the essential material if we steer towards SLO's. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Christropher: You bet, I agree. The sense the students feel towrds their instructors interest in their successfulnes is real. I think it starts and is maintained by taking time and being patient, establishing a personal connection with each student. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Jan: Good! I have found that as time goes on I always have more information then there is time to present. So I've had to learn to be selective while making sure I cover the essential course objectives. Regrads, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Klaus: Your comment to Chistine is noted. I'm glad you're getting useful tips you can use. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Klaus: Good for you. These lessons are only beneficial if they make sense to you. Good luck. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Klaus: Very good popint. Integrating the big picture regarding the students education should help them fit the different pieces together. Regards, Barry