Barry Westling

Jon, Yes, students will pick up quickly if a teacher lacks confidence or competence in the subject matter. Preparation takes time, effort and careful thought for meaningful lessons to emerge. Barry Westling

Lynne, For me, I like to think of student-centered learning as a form of individualized or personalized instruction, distinct from relying soley on a fixed curruculum-based system where class lessons proceeed regardless if the students are understanding or getting needed information. Barry Westling

Lynne, A lot of programs have external credentialing, licensing, or certification boards the graduate student must pass to be considered employable. Many examination preparation resources thrive on programs that require external measures for job readiness. I feel like the program should adequately prepare the graduates., But many are willing to pay extra to reinforce their internal feeling of readiness for such exams. Barry Westling

Kelli, I think taking responibility for doing their best is prime. That said, I can be the conduit to facilitate the realization of their goals and achievement as a successful student. Barry Westling

Paula, Hoefully these internal sentiments will be realized by the students we teach. Barry Westling

Paula, For me, in short: job ready and all that entails. Skills, knowledge, behavior, and professionalism. Given a chance, most students can build on these foundations. Barry Westling

Paula, Getting students to be open minded, cultrually sensitive, and at the same time maintaining valid ethical and professional standards can be an integral component to any training program for successfulness in the workforce. Barry Westling

Paula, Some might call this the "aha" moment, and you're right, it's an awesome feeling. For me it creates a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Barry Westling

Paula, The flip side is too much humor. Unless the class subject is comedy antics, care that just the right amount of humor is provided in a given class is warranted. Like a seasoning for a meal: a little goes a long way. Barry Westling

Paula, Right. The old "wearing different hats" part of of job description. Barry Westling