Barry Westling

Nicole, Modeling expectations provides the best oppotunity for students to copy and emulate what they see. We really owe our students more than just theory and skills, but professional soft skills that also help their job prospects just as much. Barry Westling

carla, Yor're right, motivated students are far from the majority at times. I think one key is the WIIFM principle (what's in it for me). When students can value the opportunity to learn, appreciate what their instructor can provide, and are diligent to do their assigned work, it sure makes educating them a much better. And when students see that their ewducation is going to provide a better job, career, and future, they're likely to buckle down and do their assignments. Barry Westling

Dawn, True, we can be effective role models and examples of what is expected, both for ourselves and of our students. Barry Westling

Judith, Very important to be forthright in conveying accurate and timely course status. There nneds to be time to make corrections (if needed) and to have an impact on the final grade. But, more than a grade, it's the student learning that's most important. So if a student is struggling with key or essential information, by discussing early on, we can assist them with helps, suggestions, advice, along with support and encouragement. You're right, confidence is a big part in the motivation level of students. Barry Westling

Judith, Yeah, there are a lot of dynamics at play here. For me, I find what's most helpful is to be able to make (relatively minor) adjustments in what I had planned in order to meet the needs of the consensus of the class, based on the results of the pretesting. Also, I don't pre test all the time, just at times when I have no idea where the general level of prior learning is at. Barry Westling

Wendy, It can be helpful. My suggestion is to start small, and try different methods until you find the method that works best for you. When you find that method, commit to stay consistent with entries. One big benefit is the reflection on past notations, especially when viewed over a greater time span of weeks, months, and even years. That's where we will see improvemnet, growth, and perhaps trends that suggest weaker areas we can work on. Good luck. Barry Westling

Wendy, I think as long as there is some application to the general topic, field trips and guest speakers can be a welcomed change of pace that helps keep interest, and may even invigorate some stuidents to want to try harder to do better in class, based on their renewed motivation from the field trip experience. Barry Westling

Wendy, Great way to integrate course content into daily, practical application. This is a good way to reinforce activities students will use in there daily choes as graduates in the work setting. Barry Westling

Michael, Most of the time, that's the case. I don't give EC either. To be fair, there may be settings where some EC is appropriate. But to not do well with the required material and then expect to make up for it with non-required work and get credit for it doesn't sit well with me. Barry Westling

Michael, This works for me too...most of the time. It has backfired when students feel embittered about how much they're paying, and feel like the last 30 minutes was a waste of time (thier view). But it's a good motivator, and a great way to put participation in class in to perspective. Barry Westling