Barry Westling

Hi Natelle: Very true, and the opposite is true as well. If we instructors are consistently unprepared, we will lose credibility. Regards, Barry

Hi Laura, Terrific! This kind of care and attention to preparation creates such an effective learning environment, like a well oiled machine methodically churning along. Disorganization seems to create a sense of chaos and clutter while readiness for class projects, order, competent delivery, and clarity for the students. Barry Westling

Hi Amina, First impressions are important (We have only one chance to make a good first impression!). But even if day-1 is chaotic (which can be the case, outside the control of the teacher), subsequent classes that greet the student with evrything in oder, teacher ready, resources collected and prepared, ojjectives on the board, etc., - that creates the message "I'm ready". As you imply, it sets the tone for the class. Barry Westling

Hi Rochelle, I agree, and will just add sometimes teachers assume their students are getting the information. Prior to formal evaluation, we can teach, check (for understanding), teach, check, teach, check, etc. In doing so, we don't go too far with being assured most students are getting the needed information. Less surprises when formal evaluation occurs. Barry Westling

Hi Gina, Each teacher has to decide how run their class and be in conformance with their institutional policies. Many do not allow for EC. Some of the 'A' students may feel the teacher is being unfair. That's the last thing that any teacher wants to be labeled. In my experience, EC results in only lose-lose, so I choose to avoid it, as I feel I am not helping myself or the students by giving EC. Barry Westling

Hi Gina, I don't think we help students by awarding EC. We may help alter or inflate a grade, but I think we do little to help their learning. In some courses, the grade a student receives may not be so critical. In career-oriented professions, these is no place for EC in my opinion. Barry Westling

Hi Shantel, Good post. Responsibile students follow the rules, try their hardest, get all the help available and remain satisfied with the results. In a work setting, it's the same. If we are preparing students for a career, students need to realize EC doesn't exist in the workplace (unemployment certainly does!). Barry Westling

Hi Rochelle, I have similar sentiments. My bias is to offer no EC whatsoever. Other opinions exist, and each has to decide what works best for them. Barry Westling

Hi Rochelle, Great! Also, it may be that say a small group of students are way below the class average. This may signal that remediation, tutoring, or special times can be planned for these students to help keep them up to speed with the remainder of the class. Barry Westling

Hi Rochelle, Good deal! Brief use of PPT slides is better than long, whole class periods with little engagement. Barry Westling