Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi Michael: There's nothing like an enthusiastic, confident, dynamic, energetic instructor to keep the attention and focus of a class. Adding competence and student involvement will make for a interesting and enjoyable class experience. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Understanding yourself as an instructor

Hi Ian: For me, knowing how far I can go, or when to hold back, is extremely important. This is self awareness, and although it is only my perception, this is how I see myself. Getting feedback from peers (classroom observation, trusted teacher frieds, student evaluations) can contribute to improving my weaker areas. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Iam: Field trips and guest speakers are usually quite exciting and interesting, and can be most inspirational, even to the degree of students wanting to do better in class. Inner motivation is a strong drive because for some students get a vision of a potential great future, sometimes for the first time. Ought to be required for every class in my opinion. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Christine: Frequent grade sharing is important.I think this also gives us the opportunity to give advice and suggestions for improvement. Also, reinforcing the relationship with encouargement, support and demonstrating care and concern while talking about grades. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Robert: Little things like asking questions, asking a student to summarize the past few minutes of information, things like that. Sometimes, more aggressive methods are needed. This may include changing activities to discussion, or PPT, or lab. The key is to keep students interested and active. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Robert: We can also use the time to encourage, offer support, and caring comments, suggestions, and advice. Students will appreciate it. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Gordon: Time before class is good if it's available. Even just chatting informally (if students don't have questions) is helpful and builds relationships. Also, will strenthen the focus of in-class time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Hi Greg: Yes, students get a preview, but more importantly, the teacher learns where more or less emphasis is needed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Hi Greg: Students will assume all kinds of things unless careful planning and clear expectations are given in the syllabus on the first day of class, with frequent reminders. This is not hand holding, this is achieving results. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Halina: That feedback is valuable, as it can fortell where needed emp[hasis should be applied in in agiven course. Regards, Barry