Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Kathryn: Electronic grading is very cool - it so instananeous. Even so, I think that sholdn't be a substitute for face to face time with students however and whenever we can get a chance to personalize things. It helps relating as "regular folks", rather than some "pillar of unapproachable knowledge". Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Reagan: When I'm prepared, my hope is the students would respect me for the time and effort I've put into the class. For me, whether that respect comes or not, I am determined to be the most valuable resource I can be to my students. Trust, confidence, respect - these are great if they occur but are not my motivation. I am going to work just as diligent with the slacker as I am with my superstars to get them to unbderstand the course material. Respect and trust are often not traits demonstarted by slackers. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Hi Reagan: Variety rules when it comes to selecting media. There are so many resources that might be useable, we have to be creative and thoughtful about which of the many media resources available are the best to teach a given topic. A common pitfall to watch for is to think about how best to teach the students and avoid using what the teacher likes or prefers teaching. It happens more than most would think. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Reagan: Good use of the "Plan-B" resource. Change-ups like this can be very helpful to recapture student interest and focus. Even transitioning back and forth several times in a class may be needed. Oftentimes, it only takes a little effort to get back on track. But sometimes, whole change-ups are needed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Jim: This is perfect! Having the practice engines set up before students arrive demonstrates to you students you spent time and effot to get the faulty engines ready for class. That really reinforces the students confidence they have in you. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Reagan: No surprises - right! In a way, if we are teaching in a methodical manner, following a well written curriculum, and posting grades on a regular basis, no student would ever have to wonder how they were doing - they would be as informed as the teacher. But taking time to review performance and giving suggestions for improvement does help buid good strong student/teacher relationships. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi William: Good perspective about field trips and guest speakers. I think most students get a lot out of field trips. It's different from the daily class routine. Most importantly, sometimes what a student views or learns from a well planned field trip can be tremendously motivational, enough to even get them to work harder in school.Of course, they may also realize "this is not for me". As a gust speaker, it's a bit more personal, but the benefit of being able to ask just about any questions is a novel learning activity and I've found students usually like these… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Michael: You're right about students wanting to know how they're doing. I think frequent sharing of class performance, seasoned with a sprinkle of advice, encouragement, and supportive appreciation for treying can go a long ways towards improved trust and respect. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Maria: Good technique. Sometimes it only takes a little bit to get students refocused - I think stories from the world of work or career area are great. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Maria: If a teacher gives the whole class an EC assignment, why not just make it a required assignment? Nonetheless, as long as policies and parameters about grading, due dates, and that sort of thing are outlined in the beginning of the course, no one can claim "the rules were changed" or "it's unfair to get a lower grade if I don't do the EC assignment". For me, I just don't allow it and I don't have to make up special rules. Regards, Barry