Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Chris: Wonderful! Teaching critical thinking is perhaps the greatest gift a teacher can give their students. With refined thinking skills, they will always be able to know what to do or where to get an answer. Without, they may be doomed to a mediocre life and career. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Leigh: Organizing a class sort of reflects an organized mind. This can translate to students "this teacher is reading, able, and prepared for class. It does set the tone for class, and students respond well to prepared , organized classes. They have enough chos in their lives already! Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Leigh: Interesting metaphor for a warm body! It true, customizing through personalizing of instruction will be noticed by students, especially if they're struggling a bit. For the relatively little time we spend with a student, it often pays back with dividends in the successfulness. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Margaret: I agree. There's something about stories that students like. Usually they make class more interesting and needed information can be subltely inserted into the stories. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Kay: Back-up plans can be lifesavers! I think we should always have more material available than time to do it. That will provide opportunity to use a bit of variety and change of pace to keep the lesson interesting. Also, we'll have a back-up plan for unforeseen circumstances. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting evaluation methods

Hi Mary: True: Policies need to be defined on day-1, and then adhered to by all throughout the course. Assessment should focus on how best to measure learning. Sometimes that just requires a bit of trial and error. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi James: Course content should contribute something to meeting the course objectives and learning outcomes. The more variety the better. Plus, different activities keep the class interesting. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Susan: Yeah, students really need both the technical or specialized training, and the soft skills of communication, professionalism, dress, etc. These are necessary to get and hold a job. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Steve: Good job! Hands-on, discussion, guest speakers - a most interesting and engaging class environment. Students are bound to benefit from this setting. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Michael: I agree and believe that students can become really inspiraed and motivated by attending a well planned field trip. It a powerful activity with potentially tremendous results. Regards, Barry