Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Sara: Choice is cool. Also, the more variety we can add the more interesting the class will be and the likely student retention will improve. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Sara: Great! We are the subject matter experts. Coupled with the vast array of learning resources available to most teachers these days, we should be able to contribute to their successfulness as workers in their chosen profession. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Jesse: Good points you made. I think personality is so varied, but almost all types can be effective in the classroom. The key is to be honest and sincere, well prepared and organized, listen with care, concern, and bewilling to offer advice and encouragement. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Faith: Class participation this way is great for stimulating discussion, expressing true opinions (without the guilt or fear of being honest), and assessing understanding in an ongoing delivery format. I think we'll begin to see more of this kind of technology in the classroom as time passes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Jesse: For me, giving points for incomplete or unfinised work in substitution for required assigned seems awkward, sort of like rewarding poor performance. I just don't give it, make it clear at the beginning, and rarely have difficulties with students accepting that dynamic of grading in the class. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Donald: Opinions and circumstances vary among institutions. On principle, giving points to some students but not all seems a bit unfair. While I agree that circumstances can be legitimate, the balance of the students record should be able to carry them to at least a passing grade. If not, perhaps all of the learning that should have occured did not happen. But each instructor has to come to their own decisions about how to handle missed assignments. Two thoughts: 1. How would an employer handle a missed assignment that resulted in an unfavorable outcome for the business? 2. I… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Libi: I would just emphasize students need to gain ALL the skils, knowledge and affective (SKA) performance learning in order to be adequately prepared for the work or career area their training for. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Paul: For me, in the most basic sense, the goal it's getting students job ready. Learning is the objective, teaching is the method, and an educated student is the outcome. With that, seeking work is the next step. Obviously, there's a lot in between all this but that's it in a nutshell. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Paul: True, first impressions often set the tone for future events. As you state, without preparation, our knowledge can become easily lost if not planned out and organized with creative thought. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Jesse: Great - this is a very effective method to keep students focused, paying attention, and making the class interesting. If it's fun or enjoyable, students will happliy join in! Regards, Barry