Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Chukwuka, Right! Fairness and accuracy are two key elements of any grading system. Most of all, we want to be sure we are measuring the degree to which students learned. Extra credit, busy work assignments, or anything similar that doesn't contribute to mewasuring learnming should not be a part of any grading system. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Chukwuka, Great strategy! Getting and keeping students focused and fully engaged the whole period takes a conscientious and sustained effort. Left to to their own, students will drift and we need to specific activities and actions to get and keep them attuned. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Chukwuka, Very true! And regardless of why they need to know, ensuring they're up to speed with required material and course content is our goal. Sharing their progress towards that goal conveys we care about their success, and also gives us an opportunity to offer encouragement, support and advice. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

James, This sounds like one great way to keep students focused. I always keep in mind, "why would (or should) students be interested in what I have to talk about?". If it's interesting to them, they'll pay attention. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

James, I agree! It's hard for most any student not to be engaged when in a class with an instructor who demonstrates an upbeat, enthusiastic presentation, delivered with passion and energy. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Aldorey, Great! If we assume that we do want to improve, then we can use the teaching journal as one tool to contribute to that goal. Reflection on what has worked or not worked, along with personal comments based on feedback we've received is a great teacher (and the journal a great repository). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

James, Great! Any method or action an instructor feels is important and does beforehand towards preparation is worthwhile and will benefit students. Students do notice and appreciate these efforts. They expect us to be the role model. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

BRUCE, You're right. I think being prepared with aeverything outlined, gathered, and readied just makes classes run smoother, the instructor more at ease, and the students more comfortable. As a result, there is more connectivity and engagement. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Aldorey, Great summary. Success is in the details, in this case the details being student needs and our willingness to assist them. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Melissa, Right! Frequent sharing of progress does identify weaker areas, and gives us opportunity to encourage good performance. Giving our support and advice conveys we care about student success, and students usually appreciate that kind of contact, which also helps build trust and respect. Barry Westling