Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Rosemarie: Right! And, what kind of message does it send the student when an instructor is disorganized? It may suggest to the student "I don't care enough about your outcomes", which can irreparably damage the learning relationship. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi James: And, they bring a fresh perspective to the student, which may help to renew their interest in the topic at hand. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi James: You've made a great point about his applicaiton in a career. In the class, we're describing the use of the senses as another means of using variety in the learning environment, ultimately to try to address every type of learning style. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi James: Absolutely - on the other hand, the risk of using it indiscriminantly is that it may allow a student to pass a course who has not sufficiently demonstrated they have an understanding of the main topics. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Iolanda: You are making a good point - by evaluating them in this manner, we can see what kind of learner they are, and cater our lesson plan to meet that need. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Melissa: Yes, and it gives the student a chance to make changes in study habits that might result in better outcomes for them at the end of the course. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Melissa: That's true - so should we or should we not allow it? Most institutions are hesitent to do so if it will allow a student to pass a course who has not sufficiently demonstrated an understanding of the material. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Rosemarie: That's a fun way to get them back on track. And I like how you suggest to do that in a non-intimidating way. Another technique that might work well is to walk around while lecturing, and be in closer proximity to the student. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi James: These are great points. Additionally, by knowing ourselves, we can continually strive to make improvements in both our strengths and weaknesses to become more effective. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Jackie: This is excellent! And, by knowing ourselves, we can continually strive to make ongoing improvements in both our strengths and weaknesses. Regards, Barry