Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Quebec: Great. I think whenever I'm unsure where students are, especially at the begining of a term or new session, a pretest gives me a glimpse into what areas might need more emphasis, and therefore, avoids wasting time on information already possessed by students. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Denise: Journals are great, although not for everyone. Their use varies as much as the personalities of the teachers themselves. But for those that do, there is benefit in noting observation, follow-up, thoghts, or anything deemed valuable to memorialize. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Denise: For me, student centered is really "customized student learning". I believe whenever we can tailor instructor to individual needs, the student will benefit. It's not easy or always possible, but any movenment that direction helps. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Tina: Group work is an excellent way to keep students engaged. Sometimes, we might also just ask direct questions to see what students will say. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi John: Lets face it - an organized instructor just has a smoother time of things and is more ready to answer questions that are out in left field. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Steve: I'll piggy-back on your comment about being independent - help them learn how to deal with real world situations. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Michael: Using a teaching journal allows us to make improvements on what works and what doesn't. Ultimately, this should help us become stronger, more effective instructors. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Michael: Well said! Something else we might say about the goal is to prepare them for real world situations as much as possible. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi John: Using real world examples or personal anecdotes is an excellent way to motivate students and keep them interested. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Heidi: Absolutely - and how do you think a student would feel if the instructor was consistently disorganized and unprepared? Exactly the opposite! Regards, Barry