Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Marcia: It's a careful balance isn't it? Between having passion for the topic, yet not letting in too much emotional interests, which can serve to distract the student from the topic. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Marcia: Exactly! By having techniques that appeal to the visual, audio, and kinesthetic type of learner is often considered one of the best types of strategies when designing lesson plans. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi Marcia: Selecting sufficient course content may also involve knowing what kinds of learners your student group is made up of. By knowing this, the instructor can more efficiently select teaching methods that applies to all types of learning. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Marcia: In addition to your comments, reviewing a rubric with set expectations can assist the instructor with removing any misunderstandings with the students. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Jill: One thing instructors can do is try some self-discovery to learn what their passion is on the subject. It is often this passion that is conveyed to the student, making the topic that much more interesting. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Jill: Another consideration about the use of pretests is it can assist the instructor by showing them what type of learner the student is. Then, the instructor can design the lesson plan more efficiently. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Jill: You are correct - on course correction is sometimes a great way to help the student find the self-motivation they need to make changes in study habits for more successful outcomes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi Marcia: Back up plans can serve another rolse as well. Alternate activities might serve to reinforce learning by giving the student another perspective of the material. For example, instructors might try lecture, followed by an activity that focuses on discussion in small groups. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Elsie: Good point - the opposite may true as well. If an instructor comes in unprepared, it may convey they don't care about the successful outcome of the student. This impression would most likely have a negative impact to a students learning outcomes. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Elsie: Some instructors find that using activities that can be compared to real world scenarios are an effective method of imparting knowledge. Most likely, ANY technique that imparts knowledge can arguably be considered effective. Regards, Barry