Barry Westling

Hi Brian: Great! Mixing it up not only provides real world examples but helps keep variety and interest - two challenges instructors frequently have to overcome. Regards, Barry

Hi Armondo: PPT can be quite a dramatic and impressive format for delivery of course content - perhaps especially for larger groups. Just have to remember that the media choesen should not be the focus of the class, rather it's the information contained in the media. Regards, Barry

Hi Armondo: Super! Having a plan that can be varied as needed is probably optimal - especially if you have access to many (all) of the training aids and demonstration equipment you need. Still, blocking out specific assignments that can be introduced in an emergency or on short notice would be a suggestion I'd make. Regards, Barry

Hi Armondo: Great! There are a lot of models out there. I suppose anyone of many is good as long as it gets the job done. Relating to classes individually tends to produce better results than boiler-plate instructional models. Regards, Barry

Hi Myron: It is apparent you try to do well by your students. That's terrific! Breaking things up into constructive sections, or instructional sessions that focus on just 1-2 teaching points usually will be retained by students more readily than longer, jam-pacdked sessions. Good luck as you continue to develop your craft. Regards, Barry

Hi Armondo: Yes - our mission and comission as instructors is to provide the best instruction in the most efficient manner that relates to the learning styles of all the students. Methods and techniques that follow these tenets will contribute to better student outcomes. Regards, Barry

Hi Hans: Yes, communication, perception, and receipt of information are intimately related. Being sensitive to how you or your message are received can make a huge impact on the student's ultimate retention of key information. Regards, Barry

Hi Matthew: You're right abot the use of variety and "change-up" from one one method to another. It tends to improve attention, focus and concentration, and interest. Hopefully, these improvements will lead to improved student outcomes. Regards, Barry

Hi Ronald: You've found a good use of time management to effectively benefit your students. This kind of sensitivity to the realities of behavior by students can often lead to better student outcomes. Regards, Barry

Hi Thomas: Sometimes, I think a good analogy regarding grading is that instructors have to be like parents - knowing their kids strengths and areas needing attention, and relating to them based on their individual characteristics. What is fair and accurate for one kid may be different for another kid. But students are not our kids, and deriving a fair system that allows flexibility and consideration for individual thought and creativity would be terrific. Regards, Barry