Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Richard, This is a great idea. I think reviewing past material is a great way to use time productively when it's available. I don't think we can ever provide too much review. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Charity, This sounds like a good mix of instructor-led media along with PPT back-up. I use PPT to guide me through the main points of a lesson. I avoid trying to put all the material on slides (there are better ways to give students writtem material to read). For me, PPT is just an extension of the white board, which I rely on as extension of my thoughts and the lesson points. I'll go to dark to break up my presentation for a discussion, a demonstration, or another activity, then return to the slides, repeating this throughout the lesson. Variety… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Willis, There are so many media resources out there these days, we have to be careful we're choosing the "best", not just "satisfactory" resources. Better are those media and delivery methods that maximally reach the students in an interesting way, keeping them engaged while providing the needed material. I've learned that lots of variety helps keep students interest. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Richard, I summarize this way: Knowledge, skills, and attitude. If we can get students to be critical thinkers, that's even better, as this will help them both in and outside of work, and in their lives. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Richard, Time is our enemy, and all effort to get a lesson prepared is worthwhile and ultimatley beneficial to the students. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Willis, These are wonderful experiences. Q&A preceding or following is a good way to enhance the experience and also, keeps the students a bit more accountable. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Diane, It would be wonderful if all instructors shared this sentiment (unfortunately not all do). Some defer to their fixed inflexible curriculum and just hope the students will conform to the preplanned lessons. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Jason, Very true. I think a good first impression is important, and also maintaining that level of activity daily so that students see consistent and sustained demonstration of readiness. They benefit by the content that is delivered and by the role modeling that occurs. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Rita, Right, and when an instructor is willing to modify their curriculum or delivery methods to cater to individual students, the students benefit not only from increased attention, but also feel more connected to their instructor, thus proting greater trust and respect. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Lisa, Right. No surprises. And if we convey we care when we discuss performance, that may be enough for students to follow through with the advice and suggestions given for improvement. Everyone walks awy feeling good about the outcomes. Barry Westling