Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Warren: To piggy-back on your comment, I think another goal is to prepare students for situations they may face in the real world. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi David: Guest speakers can be an especially nice touch for career oriented courses. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Hi David: I too have run into the issue of having more information in the text than what appears to be necessary. When possible, I think its a good idea to present the key information to the student, and have them use their texts as supplemental resource. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi David: The potential problem with offering EC is that it may allow some students to just squeak by and pass the course when they really haven't demonstrated an understanding of the primary points. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Melissa: By consistently working on our strengths AND weaknesses, we are certain to become more effective instructors. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Sandra: Indeed, students should have this opportunity to verify where they stand at all times. Some institutions are even moving towards electronic gradebooks to facilitate this idea. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Keith: It can also help show you what kind of student learning style the students have, making for more effective lesson planning. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Sandra: Flipping that coin over - unpreparedness may create a stressful learning environment for both the instructor and student alike. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Sandra: To paraphrase your comment - the student will pick up on how the instructor really feels. I think confidence is important, and something that promotes this in the instructor is being prepared for class for as smooth a ride as possible. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Scott: And those adjustments you mentioned are so important for promoting a stronger outcome at the end of the course. Regards, Barry