Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Austin, Yes, students do want and yearn for clarity and direction, and that's one of the responsibilities of of the instructor. It takes some effort for the instructor to get their class readied for student instruction. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Daniel, It's said "we have one chance to make a good first impression". Amplifing that, what we convey by our actions, words, and expectations stated in the course syllabus all contribute to the students perception of preparedness. Students want to have clear direction. They will do as they want if the instructor does not provide the needed direction. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Robert, Yes, if we don't provide expectations, either verabally or written, or in our actions, students will come up with their own. Effort towards prepardness demonstrates one part of being a good role model, and as such, conveying expectations. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Daniel, I agree. I reall like field trips as their is no classroom or lab activity that can match the potential outcomes this learning tool can produce. Good guest speakers are in that same category. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Daniel, Great sentiment. When we care, students benefit and are motivated to perform at their best. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Setting up a grading system

Nicole, I really like rubrics for their low level of subjectivity. Both instructor and student are bound by the predetermined grading levels. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Kyle, I agree. In short, whenever we can involve the student actively, they'll retain more. Easily said, more difficult to attain, but very doable. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Student learning outcomes

Kyle, Talking is not teaching, and teaching is not instructional if students don't learn. Developing strategies that connect with students, reinforce that material is understood, and that students leave with mastery of the subject matter should complement any structured learning program. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Kyle, Balancing the time element against need to know material can be a challenge. Taking time to work this out and developing a plan will yeild dividends in meeting both the instructor and student needs. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Kyle, We really have to be authenic versions ourselves in order for for us to be effective, honest, and sincere about our instruction. Barry Westling