Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

anthony, Worksheets are great. Also, a list for topics for small group discussion often works. A lot of instructors will just show a video or DVD. Although that can fill the time, unless it's directly related to the subject matter, it's really a waste of time. Reviewing past material, outlining chapters, presenting to the class, or moving to a activity like a lab or demonstration are better activities than a video. Even sharing work-related stories of past (good and bad) experiences can be effective because it relates to the subject, is easy to implemment, can be instituted on short notice,… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

anthony, This is a wonderful exercise as it convincingly demonstrates both how dependent we are with words and at the same time challenges students to think apart from their usual reliance on words. I feel word choice in writing is really a skilled profession. It's much different from casual consverastaion (where, tone, non-verbal cues, and vernacular) all contribute to conveying a message. Great application of the importance of using the senses in learning! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Terri, Hands on definitely compliments the theory and didactic components of a class. Some courses have limited opportunities to do hands on. But nearly all classes have some sort of practical application aspect that can be integrated into the daily lessons. I will often quote "knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do"(Goethe). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

afework, I think this is true. Probably the best way to be consistent in selecting media is to base what we use on the course objectives and learning outcomes. These days there so many instructional media selections to choose from, its really a case of which resources (from the many available) will do the best job at this time with these students. Each class will undoubtely vary some. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Harold, Tracking is a good thing because reflecting back reveal much about what worked, what did'nt work, ideas about what to try, and for many, it camn reflect growth over time. When I look at many of the things I wrote, thought were important and felt passionate about even just 5-years ago look strangely different than my interests and focus today. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

anthony, We are leaders whether we want that role or not. I feel we do owe the student the courtesy of of our preparation, full attention, and effort to get them from point A to point B in the various topics we're assigned to teach. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Terri, So many students I've had remarked the field trips they took were among the most memorable and enjoyable. I suppose each students had their own reasons, but, I've come to the conclusion students like field trips and guest speakers and get something from these activities they feel is helpful to them. Personally, I feel they are powerful activities and should almost be required activities in any career-oriented class. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

QUINTIN, Keeping students informed will assist them working on areas needing improvement (and it doen't hurt to try and offer encouragement and support while were at it). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

QUINTIN, Yep, moving around or changing the activity can help. Sometimes just having students stand up then sit back down is all it takes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

QUINTIN, I guage my lessons around the strengths of the class. Where more emphasis is needed, I'll target that to be sure students are achieving successful outcomes. A pretest can help determine where that emphasis should be (or or not be). Barry Westling