Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Roy: Definitely - if student's feel the instructor is friendly and approachable, this can only serve to help create an effective learning environment. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Katrena: That's a smart idea. Something else that may work well (if possible) is to have the instrucotr walk around the course while teaching, bringing a closer proximity to the student and themselves. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi James: By adjusting the level of instruction to where the student is currently in their level of understanding is a perfect way to support the idea of using an EFFECTIVE teaching style based on how the student learns. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Warren: And, these tools are a great way to show you what kind of student learner you have, making lesson planning that much more effective. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Warren: Do you mean one on one, or in front of the whole class? One technique that seems to work is to have the instructor walk around when lecturing (if practical to the material being taught). Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Warren: Similarly, it also allows them the chance to make SELF changes in study habits soon than later to promote a more successful outcome at the end of the course. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Warren: True, perhaps it has merit as a reward system. What can happen if NOT structured in that way is possible allow a student to pass the course without really demonstrating an understanding of the material. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Allina: The value of field trips and guest speakers is so high! Students often gain fresh perspective that may help them come to a better understanding about one of the topics you've discussed in class. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Allina: I like how you describe the abilty to "think outside the box". Perfect! To me, that means helping our students become more efficient decision makers. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Rosetta: That's so true! One way to help see if you are doing this (or any instructor) is to keep a teaching journal and consistently ask ourselves, "am I meeting the needs of the student?" If the answer is no, then what can be done better to support this idea? Regards, Barry