Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Denise: Nice self examination! Some traits will be present in every calls based on the inherent way each of us is. Sometimes, as you've elaborated, we need to tone up or down the intensity for various reasons. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Hi Andrea: Any presentation style can be effective if we remember to use a variety of teaching and learning techniques. No matter how interesting a presentation is, people will start to tune out after awhile. That's the time to switch gears and do something new. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

hi Lamarr: Both gauge where the students are in their understanding, AND, possibly help you create a more effective lesson plan. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Marcia: Indeed - when students are at clinical, they get the chance to ask questions from people who are working in the field on the fly. Often times, discussions in the class are too conceptual, and the student can't think of a question becuase they haven't seen it in the flesh yet. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi George: To echo your sentiment, we could say the overall goal is to give the students skills they will need to make the most well-informed decisions in life. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Sultana: Sounds like a good balance. My only issue with EC is points are given for extra work at the expense of assigned work, or poorly performed assigned work. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi George: Asking questions to NON-VOLUNTEERS in the class is a very effective way of getting students to pay attention. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Andrea: One way we can promote this type of attitude in ourselves is to constantly ask "am I being effective"? If the answer is no, what needs to change? Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi George: Indeed - and by allowing the student a chance to see where they stand as soon as possible, they may make changes in study habits that will promote a successful outcome. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Isaac: Also, these tools may give you an idea of how your students learn best, which can help you make more effective lesson plans. Regards, Barry