Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Magda: When doing so, is it possible for your student to get more than 100% on that assignment? If so, what are the consequences at the end of the course? Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Lillian: Field trips are especially helpful in that they offer fresh perspective about topics you've covered in class, and may also serve to renew interest in the overall ideas you've discussed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi George: Truly, not every environment is conducive to trying other things. In general, when we use many different teaching methods, we are more sure to address as many learning styles as we can. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi George: Something else about back-up plans is they may be used no matter what as a way of keeping the energy in class as fresh as possible. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Warren: Excellent! Also, if the instructor is flexible and can use a different teaching method that helps a student's understanding, perhaps another aspect of this philosophy is to be willing to exercise flexibility in the learning environment as much as possible. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Warren: And, disorganization on a consistent basis may suggest things to the student that are inappropriate. For example, it might suggest "I don't care about your learning" resulting in a loss of credibility from the student. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Lillian: One issue that might arise from allowing the use of extra credit is if it allows the student to pass a course without their ability to demonstrate an understanding of the primary concepts and ideas. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Warren: That's a strong point. Another thing we might suggest is we try to help our students become the most effective decision makers in life. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Warren: Doing this can also serve another purpose - by being in a closer proximity to the student, you help prevent the student getting off task and keep them engaged for a longer time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Joe: The main idea of creating back-up plans is their use in case the instructor runs out of time or needs to change topics rapidly. It doesn't sound like you have an issue with that in your class. Another thing these back-up plans can be used for is as a means of looking at material in a different way. It seems like you have already addressed this as well! Regards, Barry