Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Cory: Students repect a teacher when they feel the students interest's and success in the class are a priority, and the teacher is willing to facilitate assisting them. Preparation and organization often demonstrate these feelings in students. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Janet: I've kept all kinds of versions of journals as well. For me, where I get the most benefit is reflecting on p[ast observations and perspectives I've had - to understand how I've changed in my approach to teaching classes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Janet: Great. Good back up plans can be implemmented both when what we need to do gets interruped, or circumstances beyond our control occur. Also, more time (or less) is sometimes required, so being able to adjust and the the session time meaningful is important. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Michael: Super! One of the best ways to see where you want or need to place emphasis is by pretesting. Students usually don't mind either, especially if it's not a graded test. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Michael: When students know their status, their bound to at try to do their best to either bring up lagging scores, or maintain their good performance. Sharing information too late leaves little time for any improvements to make a difference. More frequent is always better. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Michael: I really believe in the power of the field trip, and to a lesser extent, the guest speaker. But both activities can inspirae, motivate, and grab the students interest in a way tat few other methds can. Students can picture themselves in the work setting, better off, and more hopeful. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting media for your classes

Hi Erica: Terrific! Both of the tools are effective and I think allow an active teacher to engage student by involving them with questions, asking their opininon, and expressing our lesson message with lots of activity and energy. Upbeat is better than deadbeat! Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Jason: Being confident adds to expressing a competence to students. That's what they expect from our past experiences, training and education, and knowledge. Confidence can add a great deal to the students perception of their instructor. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi John: Preparation does set the tone and expectations. Students will operate at the level the teacher sets. If done with care, courtesy and respect, the whole level of a class can be raised by adequate demonstration of "being there" and ready to roll! Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Rickey: Super! Combining a hands-on activity helps cement the theory portion of a lesson or skill. It also helps keep the attention and many times helps explain select concepts that are more difficult to grasp when discussed in a lecture or presentation. Regards, Barry