Barry Westling

Hi Dan: Good thoughts. Also, soon er and frequent is important because many students take time to correct and make adjustments. Feedback from the teacher early on is very helpful. Regards, Barry

Hi Dan: I use pretesting at times, mostly when I'm unsure of where the student cohort as a whole is performing. If it's a n introductory type of class, I usually don't because I know already most student are going to need a lot of emphasis on most course objectives. But pretesting is a valuable tool and I would recommend it when determing where the emphasis of a class should be. Regards, Barry

Hi Dan: Personality is important. The best one is the one when the teacher is being natural, confident in their abilities, and willing to be free to present their course in a variety of methods they feel best teach their students. I don't think we should try to be an artificial version of someone else. I ask my faculty to critique the student evaluations to understand and appreciate why students view us the way they do. This self awreness exercise is very helpful in being sensitive to the diversity of student expectation of teachers these days. Regards, Barry

Hi Dan: We are hired to do a job. To me, it is expected that the basic aspect of the job is preparing for class. When that hasn't happened, it makes for an awful atmosphere (for both student and teacher). Well prepared teachers earn the trust and respect of their teacher because studenrts sense the teacher enough to put in the time and energy to prepare thier lessons. Regards, Barry

Hi Marshall: Frequent sharing of points and grades also gives us the opportunity to offer support, encouagement, along with effective ways to improve grades. Establishing hope of a better grae helps instill treust and respect for the teacher, too. Regards, Barry

Hi Marshall: A god sign the teacher cares about student success is to prioritize sharing grading information. Frequent and sooner would be nmy general rule. How that's accomplish will vary by teacher. Regards, Barry

Hi Shawna: True, and ways to get to understand student needs varies a lot depending on the type of class. In general, when each student feels they have access to the teacher, the teacher is courteous and listens, and the teacher makes time for a personal "connection" with each student, understanding of needs, and ways the teacher can help the student achieve success will produce improved student outcomes. Regards, Barry

Hi Kristin: That's great you were able to identify what worked and didn't work early on. Many of us find that out but only after struggling for a number of years before that "aha" moment of self discovery. When we are comfortable withouselves, we are more confident, more efficicient, tolerent, patient, and creative. These are all good traits that more teachers should cultivate in whatever way that can realize their importance. Regards, Barry

Hi Brenda: Relating to students and showing concern, support and encouragement when sharing grade information can be a meaningful experience for the student. Knowing their teacher cares gets students to participate more. Regards, Barry

Hi Brenda: I think all students use most of their senses as needed. Some have prefered learning styles. If known, catering to a particular style is helpful. But by adding variety in the media selections, mixing up the sequenceing so the students get different stimulation, and getting them involved in the learning process will contribute to better learning for all students regardless of their preferences. Regards, Barry