Barry Westling

Michelle, I agree. It's very important that we are positive role models. We can be cordial and friendly, but thinking of students as friends is unprofessional and potentially dangerous. Students need to look to us for direction and instruction. Students don't come to our schools to seek out instructors to be friends with. Rather, we are their facilitator of information and knowledge that leads to learning and readiness for the work place. Barry Westling

Michelle, Yes, and having that willingness to recognize there may be weaker areas we can improve on, and openess to change is a key trait of good instructors. Barry Westling

Holly, Classes run smoother with less problems when we are adequetly prepared. We do owe this to our students. Barry Westling

Brandi, I like and encourage students to go beyond what is expected, and there is always some within the class that are inclined to do more whether they receive credit or not. I don't give EC, but I will recognize work that is above and beyond expectations. Just like in the workplace. Public praise for extra good work, but no monetary reward. Peer recognition by the instructor is often is the most valuable reward. Barry Westling

Nicolette, Here is a great example of the benefit good back-up plans offer. These are simple activities that can fill a small segment or a whole period of a class. They are low tech, related to the topic, easy to implement, and interesting or fun for the students. With prior preparation, these can be "pulled from the shelf" whenever the need arises. Barry Westling

Brandi, Cool. I think good guest speakers bring a dynamic to the classroom unlike other activities. As in your experience, students enjoy good speakers, hear a different perspective, and get to ask questions they might not even think about asking in their regular classroom routines. Barry Westling

Michelle, Good thoughts. To me, there are two levels. One is to provide the students with the knowledge, skill, and attitudes that will lead to effectiveness in the workplace. The second is to convey the importance of critical thinking skills, as this will assist both at work, and in the students personal life. Lifelong learning and solving situations beyond what we could ever teach in a class are worthwile goals to work towards. Barry Westling

James, Good for you! When ever we find a way that really connects with the class it is a great feeling and fuels more energy and enthusiasm into our instructional roles. It would be great to sustain that energy in every class session. Barry Westling

Michelle, Right, we are examples. Of course it's in the students interest to be prepared, but we are paid to be prepared and our classes organized with the materials and resources to conduct classes effectively. Respect for the instructor is likely to diminish if this was a continued pattern. Barry Westling

Leslie, I agree if we can stimulate a desire for lifelong learning, and provide instruction that includes mastery of critical thinking, we'll have accomplished a platform for success in their lives - personal and professional. Barry Westling