Barry Westling

Adonis, Right. The key is to keep interest, attention and focus, with the understanding that equipped with thes attributes, instructors will be better able to convey the needed information to a receptive audience. Barry Westling

Staci, Back ups can be simple. Something that's related to the course content, easy to implement, low tech, and interesting and enjoyable. Discussions, review, and competitive games are examples many instructors choose. Barry Westling

Adonis, Clarity with PPT is defintely a science all it's own. From formatting, to unneeded features, to how content is presented - all examples of what can make (or break) an opportunity to deliver important class information via PPT. I agree shorter, briefer slides, and intermittemnt breaks between longer sessions make PPT more useable and the information more memorable. Barry Westling

Adonis, Both these activities are unique and extremely useful, especially the field trip. It's interesting I've observed that many times students have only vague ideas about what their profession or career area includes, even being ejnrolled in a program. What's great about the field trip is it can open eyes and minds of students who would otherwise be unaware of opportunities and activities within their own profession. And guest speakers allow students to ask questions that they might not think to ask of their own instructors. Barry Westling

Carol, I frequently tell new instructors they have the advantage of years of practical work experience. I believe this is the hook that can help motivate students because it's something they don't have, you do, and I find almost always students are interested in stories, situations, past work experiences (good and bad), and case studies that illuminate how best to (and not do) whatever skills are being taught. When students see you as the resident expert, respect, attention, trust, and seeking you for answers will be the likely result, and less frustration for you. Barry Westling

Maria, I agree, and think group discussions are a great way to engage, and stimulate students into thinking about their subject while making it a little more interactive. Barry Westling

Katie, Right! Matching the media to the topic is so important. And there is so much out there these days, we really have to be a bit selective so that we choose the best resources (over just satisfactory) in order to meet our students need. Barry Westling

Katie, Boy, adding extra stress is something most don't need. And you're right, one of the best ways to avoid needless stress and angst is to do the preparation needed for class. Sessions run smoother and students are more at ease when they sense their instructor is readied with all the resources and a winning game plan. Barry Westling

Maria, Both student and instruct benefit from evaluations. I always feel I learn something about my students during evaluations, and often realize what and how I can do my classes a little better each time. Barry Westling

Maria, Sometimes a media presentation is able to get students refocused on their studies, especially if it is closely related to the topic at hand. Variety always adds a more upbeat learning environment, plus, it helps keep students engaged. Barry Westling