Barry Westling

Hi Mak: Most pedagogy resources indicate using a varied approach with learning is the most effective way for an instructor to introduce new information to a student for retention of that information. Regards, Barry

Hi Vernise: In fact, a lot of schools are now using electronic gradebook systems that allow the student to access their grade on a daily basis to inform them of status in the way you describe. Regards, Barry

Hi Mak: Also, these tools can be used as a method to determine what kind of student learning style you are working with. This might help in lesson planning. Regards, Barry

Hi Linda: I agree having a good relationship is extremely important. I think when we're student centerede, we are looki8ng for ways to individualize our instructional delivery as much as possible. We may have a great curriculum, but if it doesn't reach students, we missed the boat. Student centered attempts to customize and personlize learning to assure all students get the needede information. Regards, Barry

Hi Lori: Sometimes repitition is good, but if the well is dry there's little point in keep pumping. I don't allow students to not participate. At some point, the students and teachers have to have an understanding about class expectations. I think a lot has to do with the type of class, the time of day (or night), the topic, and the resources available and those being used by the teacher. All can be factors. Regards, Barry

Hi Brenda: Good technique. One test of engagement (and also a goal) is if the students are actively involved, interested, and able to apply their learning. I think good teachers are able to make most any topic interesting (agreed that some students will be harder to reach than others). Regards, Barry

Hi Jackie: I agree. And most classes have a mixed bag of student learning styles, abilities, interest, and motivation. So, I think a pretest can help lay a foundation of where the class as a whole stands, and begin to tailor the course to the specific needs of that class. Regards, Barry

Hi Jackie: Many schools are fortumnate to have electronic gradebooks and records so students and teacher alike can alsways find up to the minute status. But this kind of information only helps in some ways, but not all. Students need encouragement, support, advice, and direction in a way that only personal contact with the student can provide. Regards, Barry

Hi Carolyn: "Goal of.." and "Education..." gosh, these are such broad terms. I think your sentiments are sound. I think whatever we can do to positively move the student from point A to ponit B (in a training sense) probably achieves some level of meeting goals. One measure of that is is if a student cannot perform adequately, the best we could say is only partially have goals been met. Regards, Barry

Hi Mark: All good ideas. I feel like pretesting should assist both instructor and student. For the student, knowing what's coming in subsequent units is helpful. Of course, for the teacher, knowing where more emphasis will be needed is invaluable and will save time for all. Regards, Barry