Barry Westling

Hi Samuel: Well, I think most instructors would agree with you. The challenge is to determine what the most effective form of media is. Oftentimes, that decision is based on what has worked in the past, which may be okay, but only if the students are learning. Altering that proven lesson plan is where time, planning, analysis, and feedback will be necessary to really determine if you’re achieving your instructional goal. Regards, Barry

Samuel: Great! Small groups provide a lot of opportunities for students to learn perform critical thinking. Whether it’s independent reading, discussing, writing, sharing, relating, comparing, or whatever, there is bound to be more productive student learning when the peer group is smaller. Regards, Barry

Hi Samuel: It's good you recognize the importance of utilizing a variety of methods. Every student learns just a bit differently than the next guy. So, being sensitive and creative in the delivery of instructional information will produce better results. Regards, Barry

Hi Karen: Great thought! I agree with your sentiment that the responsible student will look to their instructor for insight, mentoring, sharing of experiences (SME), along with the instructional components to their course. As instructors we have an obligation to set that example and strive for outcomes whereby many students will someday overcome our achievements and demonstrate true leadership and responsibility. As a boy scout I learned, "always leave the campgroud cleaner than you found it". Applied to instruction, "always give your best and the outcome will better". Regards, Barry

Hi Fiorella: Good thought! It's a good start when an insrtuctor realizes they will probably always benefit by stregthening their weaknesses and understanding that it will likely be a lifelong endeavor. Regards, Barry

Hi Samuel: Good instructors often where many hats, and the really good instructors give much of themselves (I guess their hats fit well). But te result is indicated in the ultimate results to which you've alluded to. Regards, Barry

Samuel: Yes! Isn't it amazing how some things that are really very simple can do so much to liven up a lesson and create added interest? Regards, Barry

Hi Samuel: Great! Passion is positive and infectious. It really can motivate marginal students to improve, and good students to perform even better. Regards, Barry

Hi Samuel: This is great! Along with comfortable is confidence and empathy for your students. Students (people) are able to sense these admirable qualities. Good post. Regards, Barry

Ivette: Good ideas. I've found that what I may think is extremely fair is viewed as difficult or unreasonable by some students sometimes. When I keep everything related back to learning objectives there can be little debate whether something is fair or not. Regards, Barry