Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Pietro, I think it's vital students know where they stand in a class. They may have a responsibility to stay up on their performance, but I also think instructors have a responsibility to meet (regularly) with their students to give perspective, advice, and encouragement. That personal touch builds trust as well as conveys needed information. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Mary, Good. I think recognition for good work (games, extra work, outstanding performane) is terrific, and we should look for ways to do more of that. But points for grades, as in EC, not for me. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Jacqueline, Great! I usually don't grade the pretests either, at least a recorded grade for credit. The benefit is fior me to decide where to put my emphasis. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Tracy, In instances where it is appropriate, the biggest help is to the instructor who can plan, or adjust the lessons to place more (or less) emphasis on areas based on how the current class current and prior knowledge presents. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Tracy, Good. Sometimes, just circulating around the room is enogh, other times, asking specific students questions, and still, other times, we may need to change-up the whole activity. In anay case, keeping the focus is needed in order to avoid wasting time (studsent and instructor). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Pietro, Senses always inhance learniong. Aside from cooking, I think we all can remember a smell that instantly brought back a memory. That's powerful! Retention of information is paramount to education, and the use of senses is a great resource bto use. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Jacqueline, Great. Tech-savvy students have grown accustomed to these kind of sites and media, and I think to the degree possible that we try to meet them, at least halfway. We may have a fixed ciurriculum we want to (and need) to follow, but that doesn't mean we can't be creative in our desire to convey the information in a manner students will be familiar with. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Tracy, Although the media has changed, it's still true that knowing where to get information, and how to think through problems are among the most valuale traits a graduate could have, and a wonderful skill to be able to impart to our students. These will help in both the workplace and in personal lives. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Jacqueline, We all have strengths and it's natural to play into them. Iven with areas that may need a lttle work, I thin k if we are genuine and honest, students will appreciate that we are the real thing, only there to help the students succeed. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Pietro, Yes, we can have an impact on student lives and their academic successes. I think if we are comfortable with ourselves, approachable, patient, willing to listen, have a good sense of humor, and competent with our subject matter, students will learn to trust and respect their instructor, especially if they feel they're honest and genuine. Barry Westling