Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Jennifer: One thing that may work well with reviewing SLOs on a regular basis is to write out the daily objectives (that correlate with the overall objectives) on the white board each day. Additionally, the instructor might review these daily objectives both at the beginning of the class, and at the end. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Regina: Another great thing about using a teaching journal is that it might help reveal items that need improvement in the lesson prior to the next go â€˜round. Also, improvements can be made in both what has worked, and what hasnâ€™t. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Danielle: Also, one of the advantages of evaluating and then reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Jacqueline: Some institutions have moved away from allowing the use of extra-credit due to some issues that arise. If a student can pass a course without demonstrating an understanding of the primary concepts, that may end up resulting in angry feelings from other students who have worked hard to earn a solid grade. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Jacqueline: One of the benefits of using pretests is they may help reveal what kind of learning style your student uses. Knowing this may help you create more effective lesson plans. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Kelly: By consistently allowing students to have an idea of how they are doing in class, they have the chance to make changes in study habits as soon as possible. By doing this, they promote a more successful outcome for themselves by the end of the course. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Kelly: The nice thing about back-up plans is that they can be used - no matter what, as a means of changing up the energy of the class time. This can be a good way of helping to keep our learning environments as robust as possible. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting media for your classes

Hi Michael: One idea when selecting course material and media is to try employ as many teaching styles as we can in order to address as many learning styles as possible. Selecting material and presenting it in a visual, audio, and kinesthetic way is generally considered the most efficient method of delivery. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Setting up a grading system

Hi Robert: I think that any grading system is fine, as long as it is in accordance with the institution you work at, and the students know the expectations, perhaps in the form of a rubric so there are no surprises. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Daniel: By consistently allowing students to have an idea of how they are doing in class, they have the chance to make changes in study habits as soon as possible. By doing this, they promote a more successful outcome for themselves by the end of the course. Regards, Barry