Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Shawn: I agree we as teachers should be models of professionalism whenever we can. Of course being early to ready the class, gather the resources needed, handouts ready, copies made. When students arrive to a waiting classroom it infers "this teacher is serious about the class". It also reflects that the teacher cares about the student and their learning. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Hi Shawn: Smart boards are great; however, as you point out, their use is somewhat limited due their availability. I think when planning courses and their accompanying media, we want to focus on how best can we teach this particular group of students the specific material required for the class? These days there are so many resources we really have to be selective to be sure the right resources are chosen to maximize the instructional time and our teaching effectiveness. I statrt with the cousre objectives and student learning outcomes. I base my choices on what can I use to… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Daniel: Right. No surprises. And also, I always use face to face time to encourage and provide helpful suggestions, trying to show I care about their success. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Daniel: I like pretesting. If it's done in a non-graded way (the best way in my opinion), students usually have no qualms about taking a test. As you say, the benefit to us is we learn what areas can use the most emphasis and what areas less time need be spent (if they are already up to speed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Daniel: I think viewing some aspect of the career area a student is training for makes for an invaluable and (usually) memorable experience. Seeing first hand what they're getting into can arouse interest the student was unaware of, which may lead to a more motivated participant in class. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Lois: My reason for evaluating students is to check for understanding and inform students of their progress early on and frequently. There needs to be time for correction. For instance, waiting until mid-term is not the best time to wait to inform a student of unbstaisfactory or failing grades. Early intervention, coupled with support and encouragement will help students more. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Lois: Good observation! Individualizing instruction will help student learning and aslo assist personalizing the student/teacher relationship. Plus when we spend time with students we can understand how to customize thier needs better, thus giving them the special tools that will better assure their success in the calss. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Joyce: Great! I think passion can be a good factor in making a class successful, and it's something any theacher can exude in thier own way. Also, being sincere, honest, upbeat, approachable and supportivre are other traits that anyone can portray in their own way - and no real special talent is required. Students will appreciate the climate created in this environment. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Brenda: Yes, I agree. All criteria for how a student earns a grade should be clearly outlined at the beginning of a course - and then the teacher needs to stick to it. One thing students don't appreciate is changes mid-stream. And, as you say, if all the material will be covered thorougly ans assessed regularly, there should be no reason for extra credit. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Kathryn: Good tenets of structure! I feel traits of being honest and sincerity will always be received well. If we can make classes fun, upbeat, and enjoable at the same time, we will have little trouble keeing students attention and focused. Regards, Barry