Barry Westling

Laura, Selfawreness, understanding ones positive attributes, and a knowledge of where improvement is needed describes instructors who want and desire to do their best in the classroom and for their students. Keys to success here lie in creativity, variety, and a willigness to stretch oneself to make classes interesting. Barry Westling

Lisa, Very important. Sharing grade information and general class status demonstrates to the students their instructor cares about their successfullness. Barry Westling

Brenda, Very true. We become most effective when we are aware of what attributes we possess that can be utilized to reach our students on all levels; professional, interpersonal, advisory, instructional. Students admire instructors who are genuine versions of themselves. Barry Westling

Sundeep, I agree. For me, I just choose to reward them with something other than points that will be used in calculating their grade. Recognition, showing off their project, having them read their paper, allowing the class to see that extra effort was put in. That kind of thing is more valuable in terms of acknowledgement of a job well done. I don't give EC for points. Barry Westling

Clare, Very important. With more frequency I'm getting students with ESL, and many of these kids are really smart but their language barrier presents hurdles to overcome. In these instances, math seems OK, it's the English that's a problem. But as I said, many of these students are very bright and learn concepts quicker than the primary English students. Barry Westling

Linda, Right! Waiting too long before corrections are made can be disastrrous to achieveing course goals (i.e., passing the class). For me, a good grading system is fair, relates to the course objectives, and provides a variety of components that lead to the final course grade. This allows for a better chance for students to demonstrate their learning from more that just one or two grading components. Barry Westling

Mark, I think students want to know from their instuctor their status in class. This can be information about grades, but it can also share positive, instructuctive, or avisory information that is just as helpful and beneficial to students. Also encouragement and support can add strength to the relationship. It's so much better when the student feels the instructor is doing all they can to produce a successful outcome. Barry Westling

Linda, Super! I think anything that moves the student closer to achieveing course goals is worthwhile. Adult learners especially don't want to feel they're just doing busy work. So good back up plans need to be relevant, easy to transition to, and meaningful. Barry Westling

Mark, Great! I think students appreciate when their instructor is sincere with them, providing them with parameters that help define what is and is not acceptable. Being real, honest, and approachable endears most students whose instructors practice the dismeanor in class. Barry Westling

Linda, Good. These days, competition for jobs is as strong as ever. Preparing our students with the needed tools they'll need is the least we can do. Also giving them learning and thinking skills will prepare them for a lifetime of better work opportunities too. Barry Westling