Barry Westling

Hi Jack: Better student centered activities might be quite diverse. For instance, you might begin with lab (covering previous day skill practice). Or some weaker students may need more time to grasp the technical theory, while stronger students may be able to take basic information and get into lab earlier than others. For me, student-centered means (in part) adjusting the curriculum to fit the individual needs of students. If the goal is for them to learn, sometimes we have go to where they are to make that happen. Regards, Barry

Hi Charles: For me, part of the goal is to transfer the prepared curriculum, couple that with my technical expertise, and demonstrate any applicable practical or performance skills that combined make for an amalgum of skill and knowledge that contributes to some degree to successful effectiveness in the work setting. Regards, Barry

Hi Charles: Good thought yet achieving a meaningful application can be challenge. How do we know what styles are dominant? How do we modify the curriculum to accomodate the differences? How do we make the transition from one activity to another (other than ubruptly)? Regards, Barry

Hi Charles: Great. Encouragement and support are just as important as facts, points nad grades. Regards, Barry

Hi Patrick: Making it a part of the instructional process is often the most difficult part, considering which site, which speaker, availability, etc. But once these details are worked out, the activity can be very interesting and contribute to a newly motivated student! Regards, Barry

Hi Mark: Frequent and early discussion is important to me. Frequent, so students can make my suggestions for improvement. Early on and frequent, because there needs to be time for correction. We want the students to feel we care and see their progress, so let's give enough time to progress. Regards, Barry

Hi Stephen: Keeping a journal or something similar has it's benefits, as you well describe. Viewing your notations at a later time can be quite interesting and show growth, perspective, and maturity as an educator as well. Regards, Barry

Hi Laurel: If I've done my job well, then I'll have spent time, effort, thought, and planning preceding my lesson delivery. Students will notice when there is a prepared teacher in fron of them. And I believe they want to be receive direction and guidence, even if they "appear" like they don't like extra work. Regards, Barry

Hi Greg: Glad you'll benefit from this module. Barry

Hi Ally: Right. That's why we do what we do. Flexibility is as more important as structure in this case. Regards, Barry