Barry Westling

Hi Kobie: Right - again we're talking about using a variety of instructional methods to keep the topic fresh and interesting, and to address every type of learning style. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: Here agiain we see a great example of using a different method of presenting information by the use of the sense of touch. It illustrates well that not every learning topic needsto be in the form of a lecture. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: Excellent! Here again, we're talking about using the sense as part of the instructor's variety of methods. The main idea with any presentation style is that ideally, you can teach to visual, audio, and kinesthetic types of students. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: You are so true - but what you are describing is so valuable for addressing every type of learning style. What I get from your message is that we ideally need to use a variety of teaching methods. Regards, Barry

Hi Kobie: By allowing the student a chance to see where they are, they can make changes in study habits for more successful outcomes at the end of the course. Regards, Barry

Hi Johnny: Good point - by looking at your potential weaknesses, we can start to make changes to become more effective. Also, we can work on developing our strengths as well to continually add to our repetoir of teaching methods. Regards, Barry

Hi Gregory: Right - and also, to look at the other side of the coin, instructors need to be aware of the message it can send to the student if we come across disorganized. If we do, then it may suggest to them we don't care enough about their learning to be organized. Regards, Barry

Hi Gregory: To be honest, I think we've all felt the way you're describing about feeling frustrated with students. Keep in mind the ultimate goal: to impart knowledge and then assess if the student has it. Since every student learns at a different pace, one thing that might help reduce frustration is asking yourself these questions at those times when you feel that way: Am I trying to help this student? Do I care about their outcome? If the answer is yes, then you are succeeding with 75% of the job. Regards, Barry

Hi Gregory: This is a great deescription of the goal of educating students. A broader generalization might also be "to impart knowledge to the student". I like your use of the word "synthesize". Regards, Barry

Hi Alyce: The nice thing about the method of preparation you're describing is that it probably results in no feelings of stress on the instructor's shoulders. Also, it will convey a sense of authority of the subject matter, sending the most appropriate indirect message to the student about your knowledge level. Regards, Barry