Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Molly, As a student centered instructor we try to individulize instruction as much as possible. Pretesting is but one method to learn where the need is. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Kari, Great. A pretest is a simple but effective way to get a quick assessment of where students are regarding prior knowledge. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Molly, Good reflection! For me, I think my unique personality, coupled with my subject matter expertise, along with my creative array of instructional strategies allows me to be relatable, approachable, and appear competent. Together, these add to my confidence in providing on target lessons each class session. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Molly, Yes, tieing in real world experiences into the lesson makes class more interesting as well as stimulates thinking about what job settings might be possible when completion of school occurs. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

James, Great! I think even with near-instant grade posting, it's helpful to have chats with students about their performance. I find this helps creates trust and respect between instructor and student. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

James, Great! I don't always pretest, but it can be a helpful tool for when there is a question about how much and in what areas need more (or less) emphasis. And I don't make these comprehensive, nor are they graded. I usually just take 5-6 key course objectives and create perhaps 10-12 questions to give me an idea how the class does as a whole. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

James, Yes! If we can get students to think on their feet, we will have accomplished much, especially for the workplace, but also at home and in their personal lives. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Rosemary, Good point. I think piggybacking new information with related information, or examples that help trigger retention of new information is a great idea. Another suggestion is preview new content. I used to think this was not a good use of time but now realize taking a few minutres to have the students read the foreward, table of contents, chapter outline, chapter objectives, key terms, then scan through the chapter really helps give a "preview of coming attractions". Of course this could be done at home or away from class. The advantage I have is I can emphasize certain points,… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Allen, Right.! Another benefit is that of self reflection, especially over time. It's very interesting to read waht was important, what mattered, and how we as instructors view these same issues months or even years later. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Luciana, Right! Self understanding is so important. It contributes to both our confidence and competence as instructors, and also makes for a smoother and more relaxed setting and learning involvement. Barry Westling