Barry Westling

Hi Karl: Good point. Students are able to sense when an instructor is uncomfortable for whatever reason. That could also be translated by some students who take it personnaly which of course may lead to them not performing as well as they could. When we are ourselves, we tend to remove interpersonal barriers, and most students prefer to relate to "just plain folks" rather than someone who conveys aloofness or superiority. Regards, Barry

Hi Jason: Great! Passion and enthusiasm seem to go hand in hand. Just about everyone is more responsive in an upbeat, positive environment. As instructors, we can create and control that environment. Success is more likely in this setting. Regards, Barry

Hi Ann: Good self introspection and self evaluation. I think good instructors are willing to be open and honest with their strengths and areas needing improvement. Then, look for opportunities to become stronger. Providing leadersghip is among the roles That doesn't mean instructors can't be humble. That's a good role model as important as any. Regards, Barry

Hi Morgan: Good. You've got a handle on where you're at and what areas you may need to improve on. Regards, Barry

Hi Armondo: Well constructed evaluation systems really do take thought and effort to be effective. Less than that, and poorer results are likely to occur. Regards, Barry

Joe: Yes, many times this can be time consuming but the results are worth the effort. Regards, Barry

Hi Joe: Student learning outcomes (SLO) is what every assessment should ultimately be linked to - either directly or indirectly. It may sound silly, but I seriously ask "is the student supposed to read the instructor's mind?". The way to avoid just assessing unrelated or unimportant information is to link the assessment to the SLO's. Regards, Barry

Hi Joe: Great! It sound like you're very sensitive to how the "flow of the class" is going. I think instructors who are willing to "tune-in" to the pulse of the class and adapt the lessons end up getting better student participation and interest. Of course, that result is likely to produce better prepared students. Regards, Barry

Hi Joe: It appears you're using a lot of variet, which is good. Using multiple semses and delivery modes contribute positively to students understanding and retention of information. Regards, Barry

Hi Joe: Good. I see two component to this. One is the willingness to self analyze oneself. The other is being willing to possibly change or modify the approach or delivery. Many instructors are reluctant to vary how they do things, even if they are shown alternative methods that have proven successful. Regards, Barry