Barry Westling

Hi Patrick: You've got a method that seems to work for you. I've found that PPT handouts work best when they're presented along with the PPT slides. Regards, Barry

Hi Patrick: Yes, good back-up plans work. Regards, Barry

Hi James: It is difficult when you have institutional standards that that you have to adhere to. One way to approach this is to create an environment where there is collaborative learning among the student, rather than a competitive environment. Methods to create collaboration might involve geeting students into groups and`together, as a team, come up up with responses to questions or situations you provide. This adds to critical thinking as well. Regards, Barry

Hi Flavio: Our purpose in developing quizzes and tests is to assess to what degree the student has mastered the course material prresented to them. Learning is the process the student goes through, while knowledge is the hoped for outcome. It's true, the student/graduate does reflect on the school and instructor reputation to the employer. We should strive that all students leave feeling satisfied the instructor cared about their learning and successfulness. Regards, Barry

Hi Michael: Sometimes, your back up plan requires something other than deleting course material. It may involve rescheduling, sustituting choice of media, or refocusing the lesson to fit the situation. That said, you are fortunate that there is extra information that can presented or not depending on the situation. Regards, Barry

Hi Richard: Another advantage to students is you are able to relate to their individual differences because you know where your perspective clearly lies. Regards, Barry

Hi Flavio: Utilizing mutiple media almost always adds flaor and variety to a lesson - therefore, more likely to be remembered. Getting the students involved somehow will instill the best retention of information. Regards, Barry

Hi Howard: Good points. I would add to the list weaker areas I know I need to improve on. Getting that valuable insight can come from sitting in your peers classroom sessions and take notes about what you notice they're doing that you're not, that you feel in helpful. You can also ask your peers to sit in your class and do the same thing, but add you'd like them to critique it (because you want to improve). This is a sometimes hard and humbling thing to do, but it works. Regards, Barry

Hi Howard: Teaching really does require much from those who engage in this noble profession. That's why your passion for teaching is needed because it helps overcome frustrations and barriers we all face from time to time distracting us from our purpose. Patience and care will always be helpful characteristics for willing, giving teachers. Regards, Barry

Hi Amanda: I like the IDARE method - simplistic but effective! Planning nearly always provides positive results. Planning for "Plan-B" is part of that process. Seems minor until that day comes when you have to rely on it. Then it's a life saver! Regards, Barry