Barry Westling

Hi Rufino: Good points. For me, my instructional personality is usually the same but I vary the method of delivery and try to include mand different activities within a period to keep student interest and focus. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: I can encourage you by sharing that all teachers instruct their classes a little diffrently. If you have approved student learning outcomes (SLO's), and good daily objectives, then as long as these are met within the timeframe given, you're doing OK. The creative part is detrmining various ways to present each topic so the class is interesting, relevant, and meets course objectives. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: In small classes in a special subject such as yours, I might suggest you look at each days topics and think about 3-4 different ways to present each topic area - not that you're going to use them all necessisarily. But if students become distracted, you can switch to one of your alternative learning methods as a change up to help keep interest and/or re-engage the class. Regards, Barry

Hi Eric: Individuals with experience, specialized knowledge, or work settings where graduates may sometime work are ideal for creating a deepened interest in the subject matter. Also, field trips can be motivational and get a class of students re-energized and focused on their studies. Regards, Barry

Hi Thomas: As teachers we all can probably relate to this issue. As we consider our students best interests and desire for them to learn, as you've stated, we have to resist spewing too much information in favor of sequencing chunks oif lesson material in portions student can comprehend. Regards, Barry

Hi Thomas: Nice discussion. I think the grading of skill testing versus critical thinking or testing based on theory are different, but in either case, informing students early on so there is enough time to make improvements is important. Peer comparisons are good, as is one very key assessment: by us, their teacher. As experts, we should be able to spot areas that may need improvement quickly, and then convey that information immediately. Regards, Barry

Hi Marina: I agree your process works because I do the same thing, although not necessarily every term. But when I do, I learn information about students that help understand what areas I need to emphasize and where I can back off, as applicable. Regards, Barry

Hi Marina: Creating good workers from scratch is a challenge indeed. That's why good instructors keep the students focus on the job, career, or profession they're training for. Also, helps keep students motivated. Regards, Barry

Hi Marina: Creating good workers from scratch is a challenge indeed. That's why good instructors keep the students focus on the job, career, or profession they're training for. Also, helps keep students motivated. Regards, Barry

Hi Fran: Your institution is like many. EC is more about "grades" and less to do with "what learning occured". Policies and preferences do vary among institutions. Regards, Barry