Barry Westling

Hi Henry: Most student's won't mind taking "a test" if they know it's not part of a grade but only for informational and planning purposes. For me, it helps determine where more (or less) emphasis is needed. Regards, Barry

Hi Henry: Good thoughts! For me, good back up planns are anything that is revelevant, low tech, interesting to do, and requies little preparation. Often, we have to use back up plans for whenever whatever was planned cannot occur for whatever reason. We don't want to waste the student's time. Regards, Barry

Hi Angela: Wonderful! All these are great examples of senses. Sensory stimulation by more senses will result in better retention of information. Color, demo's, labs, and critical thinking exercises utilize more senses, and can be used for enhanced learning. Regards, Barry

Hi Kimberly: Right! And by sharing stutus learly on, and regulary communicating progress, students will have a running idea of where more study may be needed and perhaps encouraged by their improved progress. Regards, Barry

Hi Henry: Most students appreciate their teacher taking time to share student status. If we are caring, showing concern for the students success, while giving advice and suggestions for improvement, students will recognize our efforts and possibly give more respect and trust in the teacher. Regards, Barry

Hi Henry: If we are teaching, we need to document and assess "did learning occur?". Also students want feedback about their progress. We can convey our care and offer encouragement if take time to discuss student progress. Regards, Barry

Hi Henry: It is a challenge to find that perfect balance of the various grading components. Sometimes it's trial and error until a right fit is found. Basing more weight on componets that will most accurately reflect the learning that did (or did not) occur makes the most sense to me. Regards, Barry

Hi Howard: Nice style - smooth! I think using the white board along with PPT makes the use of my time. I also have students come to the board and answer or provide poibts to be discussed. Keeping them engage is everso important. Regards, Barry

Hi Leonardo: Awarding EC is viewed different ways by teachers and institutions - some not allowing it at all, while others making long lists of rules for giving EC. I feel if there is content that's importnat it should be included in the required assignment, and if missed, the student takes the hit for missing it. That's real world and the real world of work as well. Each has to decide on their own. Regards, Barry

Hi Leonardo: Good techniques. These varitations either keep students attentive or keep them alert by the movement, activity, or "personalizing" the teaching session. Somtimes more drastic measures are needed. But just altering the atmosphere a little usually may be all that is needed. Regards, Barry