Barry Westling

Kyle, Yes, I agree. A weaker area is merely a stronger area waiting to be developed. Barry Westling

Kyle, Students notice little things. I think whenever possible, I try to be in the class before any students arrive. This gives a chance to answer questions, or just chat and relate. When students see a well prepared classroom, materials assembled, resources ready, and the teacher waiting to go, that conveys a strong message. Barry Westling

Kyle, I don't think ythere is anything rong with preparing the guest speaker with some background, what the students want to know, or even asking that they merge certain key points into their topic. I know we've asked them in for their expertise and special spin, but if it turns out just so-so, we'll have wasted valuable time (and students will notice too). Barry Westling

Kyle, Right! It could be said that there is no teaching if learning is not occurring. Our mission is to all we can to reach our students in a meaningful and effective manner every day they are in our charge. Barry Westling

Stephanie, Students need to know where they stand, what improvements are needed, and given suggestions or advice to see their grades and mastery of the material is achieved. In one way, they should be accountable to keep track of their progress. That said, as instructors, we should be proactive to make sure they know where they're at from the instructors standpoint. Barry Westling

Nancy, Yes, grading rubrics help to remove much (but not all) of the subjectivity that may be present in a project, essay, research, presentation, or discussion activity. Both instructor and student know what the criteria is, and therefore, both are held accountable to the same grading standard. Barry Westling

Kerry, Working backwards from the end of the course, I know what essential skills and knowledge I want students to have. So as I move forward in the lesson, I try to meet frequently and early on so as to inform students where they are, and give them suggestions or advice about improving their grade if that's needed. If not, I just give them well deserved recognition. If struggling, I'll offer encouragement and support in discussions about grades. Barry Westling

Kerry, Great. Perfect way to learn what level of student you're dealing with. Barry Westling

Stephanie, Good strategiy. I think stories, case studies, past experiences, interesting, funny, or amazing events seem to nearly always catch the attention of students who've momentarily lost their focus. Afterwards, back to the lesson. Barry Westling

Tim, Great example of effective media. With so many choices, we have to be selective in choosing what we use to teach material. There is satisfactor, then good, then excellent categories, which of course choosing the best for the material being taught would be desired. Barry Westling