Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Shanna: In my opinion, reinforment hardly breaks the skin on the great significance good field trips can provide. Sometimes, whole careers can be molded from hust a few inspired words experieced during a field trip. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Paula: Good - I call these "change-ups", just something that breaks the flow of cerebral apathy, but then I get back on track and continue on with the lesson, but maybe this time using a different learning resource. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Becka: Great - good teachers want their student to know how their doing. Another way is to get real-time feedback from students as the lesson is progressing. That way, students always know if they are understanding the material, or need further clarification. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Becka: Live action and stories or work-related situations help keep interest and attention of students. These are good techniques you use. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi Becka: Probably everyone has exoperienced smelling an aroma that results in a past memory. To me, that suggests there is power in senses, such as smell. What a great workshop to demonstrate senses in the classroom! Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Becka: The cool think about graduates as guest speakers is they are usually more enthusiastic. That helps create a unique energy. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Shanna: Good. Planning takes time and thought. If pretesting assists that process, all the better. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Shanna: By giving personal time to students, they will appreciate the encouragement as well as advice. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi John: Great! Math would seem to be an excellent setting for using a pretest. Also, it may help the teacher avoid spending time on topics unneeded because students already have have an adequate understanding of select math problems. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Mark: My feeling defers away from EC as that seems to be a grading concern, where as I am intereted in students learning. Giving away points may artificially raise a grade, but if a student misses out on some essential material, I haven't done anyone a favor. But opinion varies, and institutional policies provide guidence for what is and is not acceptable. Regards, Barry