Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Daniel, Right! And the tools are the skills and knowledge needed for their career. I think if we can also impart the critical thinking skills, and professional demeanor needed for success these days, that will contribute to our mission to assist in their success. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Marilyn, Great. Journals work for those who value them, and are just a task for those that do not. No one is advocating extra busy work just for the heck of it. But I've found great value in documenting my thoughts and observations, and reflecting on my comments months or years afterwards is very interesting reading! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Brandon, Very true. I think if we are sincere and approachable, most students will warm up to their instructor quite readily. Being willing to listen, having patience, a good sense of humor, and a general care for the students success can only add to the positive merits an instructor exhibits as well. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Jessica, Right! And because of differences, good instructors adjust, modify, and/or individualize their instructional plan to fit their students needs. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Deborah, Electronic grading does make it convenient for students to monitor their status. I think having one-on-one conferences is beneficial, even when students know their grades becuase it allows the instructor a chance to make a personal connection with the student, giving advice or encouragement, or whatever else may be needed as emerges from the discussion. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Rena, Students like stories, and I find many times a good story of a past experience, situation, interaction, or big snafu can capture attention and also bridge the "theory with reality". Students usually appreciate these sidebars. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Rena, We've got a job, (one we were hired for by the way) and students want and expect guidanace and direction. And that is unlikely in a setting where disorganization and unprepardeness exists. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Helen, Good point. We haven't taught if students haven't learned. Adapting our lessons to meet student needs is core to student centered learning. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Terence, Yes, and they want to know, good or bad, what can be done to make improvements. Sharing information soon enough to make corrections is vital. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Terence, Yes pretesting works for a lot of classes, but not all. I pretest when I desire to know what prior learning has occurred. Barry Westling