Barry Westling

Hi Stephen: You're right, many students are visual learners, and most people seem to retain information if, at least in part, it's presented visually. Obviously some skill tasks cannot be "visually illustrated". Also, some students will fully comprehend a topic if it's presented only by visual methods. Thats where we as instructors have the opprtunity to put on our creative hats! Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: I agree with your statements. Often, a particular skill or bit of profession knowledge is better tested using one specific type of test over another. I thinks its great to mix up the testing instruments when possible too, as it can contribute to improved critical thinking exercises and processes. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: Good that you have access to other resources. I think the main thing is that in unexpected circumstances students have relevant lessons and/or activities that are something more than time fillers. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: I think your plan is great for breaking up the day-to-day routines that can contribute to a less than interesting lesson for the students. Back-up plans work best when everything you usually count on is not available. So what do you do? That's where great back-up plans are generated! Regards, Barry

Hi Timothy: Great! Obtaining a balance (weight) among the various assignments does require some thought and carefulness. The worst case would be a student earning enough "easier" points to earn a passing grade, but not know the material. Best case would be the student learning the material well and earning a good score. Some teachers will use grading rubrics for this purpose. But even the rubric has to be accurate for it to be an effective tool. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: Good ideas. I think you're right - we can't help but infuse students with attributes that either directly or indirectly assist them in their career pursuits. I think that's why its so important that, as instructors, we portray the best role models we can be. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: It sounds like you've a couple of good ideas from experienced teaching. I think students will always opt for the easier way if given the chance. Regards, Barry

Hi Ward: Good ideas. I think the more appropriate media choices an instructor can integrate into their lesson plans the more meaningful and helpful the lesson will be to the student. Regards, Barry

Hi Timothy: I think students students like the kind iof variety you're descrtibing here. It requires them to use different kinds of thinking, and the presentation and delivery breaks any potential monotony. Good deal! Regards, Barry

Hi Craig: Great. The key is willingness. It's easy to just settle for what we can get by with. Quality takes work, and it's not always fun or plesant - especially if we have to open to be honest with ouselves to examine some unplesant trait we have. Regards, Barry