Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi William: Great. Determining how best essential and critical information can be presented to the current class does take much thought, planning, creativity, effort, and our enemy, time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Cheryl: True in more cases than not (sigh). Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Barbara: Useful technique. Sometimes, the disengaged are just zoned out, seemingly there, but not where you are in the lesson. This situation calls for "active learning strategies", where all students are expecting they will called on or are involved in a physical-type activity related to the lesson. Many approaches, probably all are good if they result in good student learning outcomes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Cheryl: Journals are very useful, especially to those who value the idea of notations to facilitate later reflection. Like the amazement of a newly found old photograph, as a teacher personal notes can be effective as a learning resource. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi Carolyn: Involving senses is definitely a plus, and I think writing the notes, rewriting them, reading the notes (say in a tape recorder, playing back the tape or recorder listening to the information are similar to techniques you've decribed. These are are helpful methods to assist retention of information. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Nisa: EC is not for me. I don't fault those that use it, but I feel if it's important it should be assessed and appropriately graded. Some bonus points or applications in an essay my be OK, since they probably represent very little of the overall grade. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Nisa: Right on! When we center our attention on student needs, our planned activities may need to be modified, but the student will benefit more from our customized approach than something canned that they miss altogether. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Nisa: Yes, step-by-step. And I believe the teacher has the biggest influence over how those steps can be guided. Like a coach, we also have the oppotunity to give uplifting remarks to steady their stair climbing efforts. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Mitchell: Applying information taught in a class is a version of critical thinking, and should be done as often as applicable. If it's valuable, why not just incorporate it into the curriculum in the first place? Nonetheless,applied material demonstrates learning has occured. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Nisa: Giving reponsibility to a student can potentially keep them engaged and is an excellent technique. Taking responsibilty requires more focused, attentive involvement. Regards, Barry