Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Roy: 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

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Ruth: By consistently evaluating and 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

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Ruth: One thing to avoid this might be having a policy of â€œno make-up quizzesâ€ at the outset of the class. This can create an expectation for the students, and supports the importance of being in class everyday. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi Deborah: The best idea when selecting course material is to 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 considered the most efficient method of delivery. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Sherri: 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

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Kari: Try this - divide up the students into groups, and have each group research one section of the subject matter, then have each group present to the whole class. See if this offers you more time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Kari: Keep in mind the idea of BALANCE when discussing or thinking about personality in the classroom. If there is too much of any personality style, be it too humorous, or too strict, etc., this may serve only to distract the student from a full understanding of the course material. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi George: The problem with consistent disorganization from an instructor is the potential loss of credibility with the students, and the message it may send, which is â€œIâ€™m not concerned enough about your learning to be organized for youâ€. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Cynthia: 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. Regard, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Wendy: The 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. Regard, Barry