Barry Westling

Sherry, I agree extra points to pass a class has no value in student learning. For me, I try to make sure all my components (quizzes and exams, projects, labs, skills, homework, professional development) are balanced so that not just one category makes or breaks the student, but also, I want the most important ares to have more weight. In the end, it's important to to me to make sure I am accurately amnbd fairly measuring student learning. Barry Westling

Alan, I agree. I think informantion and communication dispel confusion and misunderstanding Chatting with students about their status gives us an opportunity to give suggestions, offer assistance, and convey encouragement and support for all the work they're doing that is good, along with areas that may need improvement. Barry Westling

Daniel, Great self reflection, Daniel. Experience can be a great teacher, but only if we learn from mistakes, adopt a willingness to adapt attitude, and assume our responsibilites seriously with the anticipation of great student outcomes as the result of our efforts. Being real, genuine versions of ourselves rather than an imitation of someone else is also important. With these traits, we can arrive in the classroom competent and confident with ourselves and and the content we're accoutable to teach. Barry Westling

Sherry, Great! Some classes, pretesting works better than others. I don't grade mine and I find students are more willing to "give it their all" when they know they won't be graded. Barry Westling

Alan, Games can have an instructional benefit if they are planned and organized well. I like them because the students like them and they tend to be fully participative. Also, students don't usually think of these as "back-up", even though that's what we do them for. Barry Westling

Sherry, By adding variety, instructors make the class more interesting and relatable, therefore, they will be more apt to retain and apply the needed information. Barry Westling

Alan, Super! I think students are more engaged and pay attention when instructors are active during class. It creates control, focuses attention, and students are more apt to learn, remember, and retain key information. Barry Westling

Alan, Surpisingly, I have found students want and desire direction, instructions, and expectations given to them. That doesn't mean they will follow them all the time, but I think they want to know what the limits are (so in some cases, they can push the limits). At any rate, our preparation serves as a role model, and more importantly, assists us in making the learning experience meaningful and effective. Barry Westling

Sherry, I agree. I think these should be required curricular standards, but of course not every course is long enough or as applicable or feasible. When they are scheduled, these are wonderful experiences. Barry Westling

Jamie, Right! I think sooner and more frequent is always better. Most people are anxious to know how they are performing, and students are no different. I believe each contact we have with students results in stronger relationships, and these contribute to better student/instructor interaction. Barry Westling