Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Lacey: One technique that instructors may use is to write out the daily objectives, then repeat those objectives at the end of the learning session to make sure the student has gotten the main idea. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi William: That's a great idea - in other words, be flexible with yourself to be able to modify your lesson (If possible) on the fly. Flexibility is important, it ultimately results in giving us more control over the pacing of the information. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Traci: Good point - by knowing yourself, you can develop a realistic expectation for yourself about what you are passionate about teaching, and for what you may be less than passionate about. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Lacey: What we're really talking about here is using multiple teaching methods to get a point across. This idea goes back to using different strategies to teach to all the types of learners - visual, audio, and kinesthetic (or hybrids of these). Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Traci: Especially if we consider what the student may do with that information we are giving them in their future. This is especially true for learning sessions that have a direct impact on their career or job field. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Carol: That's a great idea. The presence of the instructor standing by the off-topic student SOMETIMES can help bring that student's attention back on track. A good follow-up question to consider would be "what should we do if it doesn't"? Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Seth: As a general rule, the type of extra credit that allows failing students to pass a course is an ineffective practice. Additionally, students who are doing well in the course who see other students using this tool to catch up may develop resentment. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Katherine: Exactly! Imagine using an ineffective strategy over and over and getting the same unsuccessful student outcomes as a result. That's crazy! By using a journal, we can keep track throughout the learning session what works and what doesn't so we can revise our teaching style in future sessions. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Traci: Yes, and allows the student the chance to make corrections in study habits that may result in more successful outcomes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting evaluation methods

Hi Seth: That's a fun idea - it probably gives your students a sense of control over their learning, a very important tool in learning. Also, by varying the learning techniques, instructors may find a greater overall level of retention, as students learn in different ways. Regards, Barry