Barry Westling

Hi Charles: I think you are on track. This idea is simply looking at things from the point of view that students end up learning what they're supposed to (versus standardized institutional lesson plans that may or may not result in learning). I like your sentiment about being inspired. That usually takes a lot of passion by the instructor. Regards, Barry

Hi Alana: I think you've got a good plan there. Experienced teachers often have much more information theyb want to share then there is time to deliver. A key to thinking about this is whether the selected lessons and resources effectively contribute to stuident learning. If so, wonderful! Regards, Barry

Hi Alana: Student centered also puts the focus on the perspective of the student, versus that of the institution or instructor, not that those participants are not in control, but approaching instruction based on what the students needs are at the time. This can include many methods and models, but however it's done, it shifts the focus from teaching to learning. Regards, Barry

Hi Margaret: It's good to recognize that we may have personal challenges that "the eyes in the back of our heads can't see". Being willing to adjust, adapt, modify, in effect, change how we are doing something is a trait possessed by better teachers, in my opinion. Regards, Barry

Hi Alana: Great! Your willingness to adapt is a big thing (not all are willing - they're set in their ways). Feedback in the form of questions asked, student affect, attention, even eye contact can give clues to how well someone is receiving information. I also think a real key is to keep the information interesting by continiuous relating the instruction to the profession you're preparing your studnets for. You'll be giving them something they want, therefore, they'll be more likely to pay attention. Regards, Barry

Hi Ronald: Good thoughts! We do have other younger generations coming up behind us. Hopefully, we can teach in such a manner that we inspire for greater achievements and outcomes for our students. That's how progress will be made, and ultimately, the real test of how effective we've been in our responsibilities. Regards, Barry

Hi Kimberly: This is not a bad idea, if allowed by your institution. I've done it and and students seeem to feel they're treated fairly, even if there is a disputed question. Regards, Barry

Hi Kimberly: Often these assessment components align, sometimes not. I just try to be aware that what and how I'm measuring student performance acturally measures student learning. Regards, Barry

Hi Patti: Great idea. A work-in-progress score sheet! This could possibly illuminate to a student where their weaker arteas are at a glance. Regards, Barry

Hi Kimberly: Yeah, when students know where they're at, it may give them an opportunity to improve if they're at the lower limits. As you've stated, I find too students are often willing to shgare important things going on in the backside of their lives, and maybe I can assist them in other ways - even if it's just advice. Regards, Barry