Barry Westling

Hi Micael: I would much rather have a true, honest and sincere version of a teacher than an artificial facade of someone else. We all have personalities that have good (and less than wonderful) traits, and it seems to me to build on working to the strengths an individual naturally posseses will ultimately produce the beetre teacher. We expect to grow as teachers (we can't grow someone else). I do think peer review, positive input from others, evaluationss, etc. help frame our delivery style and performance. I think our uniquenesses make for more interesting and effective instructors. Regards, Barry

Hi Steven: Putting together a meaningful class that's creative and interesting, that keeps students engaged and achieves the learning objectives DOES require a good plan (along with time, effort, and good organization). Regards, Barry

Hi Fran: Sharing perfomance data and recording via documentation is good. We also use the time to offer supporting, caring encouragement if a student is doing poorly. Regards, Barry

Hi Angela: Many have experienced what you describe. Although it may take more time, if we check for understanding continuously as we move through a lesson, there will rarely be students who don't get all of the needed information. This also give the teacher an opportunity to employ creative learning strategies to check for understanding and keeping all students engaged. Regards, Barry

Hi Gwen: I sort of agree. I think however that if any EC is important, it should be included in the curriculum in the first place. As you imply, mostly (not always) EC is used as grading-oriented strategy more than a learning-oriented activity. Regards, Barry

Hi Paul: Great! I think clear expectations is among the biggest problems teachers encounter when they experience difficulty with student understanding. These goals, objectives, and standards should be clearly reviewed beforehand, in writing, and reinforced regularly. It's rare that a student can recall every bit of information presented on just one or two presentations. Regards, Barry

Hi Angela: I agree with your sentiments and rationale, but this is controversial, and therefore varies among individuals and institutions. Regards, Barry

Hi Paul: My goal relates to job readiness. To achieve that, I have to make sure the requisite knowledge, skills, and affective information. Basically, our practical goals is to achieve these attributes through varied and creative assignments that assist in retention and long-term memory. Regards, Barry

Hi Paul: Good comment.I think we all have personalities that with a little attention can create excitement, enthusiasm, and interest, fine-tuned to our individual personality types. Being honest and sincere, knowledgeable, and creative, coupled with confidence can transform an otherwise so-so class into a dynamic one. Regards, Barry

Hi Kurt: When I'm prepared and feel organized, I just teach better and, as you imply, students take notice. Competence and confidence go hand in hand. Regards, Barry