Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Leon, Major activity change ups are sometimes needed, but not always. I find just addressing students directlty, circulating around the room, or taking a short (5-minute) break can be enough to keep students focused, especially when I feel I need to stay on the current topic for a while longer. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Leon, Good examples. Of course, "been there, done that" is a remembrance of things to avoid in subsequent classes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Leon, Great! Q&A is always a great way to use available time, for review, to check for understanding, to prepare for assessment, to stimulate critical thinking, or just summarize the day's activities. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Leon, Multiple senses in the learning process are wonderful for reinforcing ideas and material necessary for success in the course. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Student learning outcomes

Leon, For me, meeting student learning outcomes (SLO's) mean achieving the purpose of the course. Anything less identifies my failure to completely meet some aspect of learning the student will need to effective apply their learning in the work setting. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Leon, I choose what I think are the best media and learning resources for the current students, in the current class, at the current time. These may be different than previous classes, and frequently are. I feel you have to connect with your students where they are, and as you find them. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Leon, Great! It's hard not to connecty with a passionate, enthusiastic instructor at the helm! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Leon, Of course a basic goal is to impart the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for success on the job. If we can add critical thinking and professional behavior to that list, we'll have helped them for life - both in and outside of work. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Leon, Like a personal journal, a teaching journal is personal, for the use of an instructor to jot notes about whatever they may observe, want to record or document, or refer back to sometime in the future. The benefit is in the reflection on these notes at a later date. They often reveal growth, improvement, or are just interesting to see how the instructor viewed their class in the past. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Leon, Good thoughts. I think being willing to step up and face areas we perceive as a weaker area in order to overcome or strengthen that weaker area takes courage and maybe a bit of humility, but improved performance will be the result. Barry Westling