Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Kristina: Many institutions use electronic gradebooks that allow the student to access their grade anytime they want. Having this kind of system might aid the instructor for that student who needs to know their grade every moment of the day because they are the "self-competitive" type you describe. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Isaac: One thing I have found that can help set the stage for equality in the classroom is to use rubrics as often as possible, so there are no misunderstandings about the grading expectations. Also, answering each student in the same manner across the board makes for a "fair" disposition. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Carol: Very true. One thing that may help an instructor see their strengths and weaknesses is using a teaching journal. Doing so allows us to see what works, what doesn't, and what improvements might be made to make for a more efficeint outcome. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Yuliya: One thing that might work well is for the instructor to always ask themselves "what outcome to I want for this student"? This can help identify the needs of that student. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Yuliya: Very true - it's important students feel safe in the learning environment. As instructors, we can promote this by letting the students know what to expect, including how and when review of examinations will be handled. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Jackie: While back-up plans are generally considered something to do in case you run out of primary information to talk about, I think you make a strong point here by describing the use of these activities as a way to change up the energy in the class, something that is often times critical to keep students engaged. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi James: Very true. On the other hand, what if we did what you describe as an activity on purpose, then have the students return and describe what they talked about? Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Laura: One reason why newer instructors may be disorganized is lack of familiarity with the material they are teaching. For this scenario, it's always a great idea to have a back-up plan or two that the instructor can bring out to help fill the time, and foster discussion. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Luequiten: Another interesting thing that can happen is a loss of credibility for the instructor if they are consistently disorganized. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Leuquiten: Very true, in fact a lot if institutions are moving to some kind of electronic grading system that the student can access via the internet. Regards, Barry