Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Maria: Pretesting isn't needed in every class or every time. It works best when it's unknown at what level the students are beginning the class with. Based on the inforamtion provided, adjustments in what will be needed to be emphasized is much clearer. Like anything, it's a tool that be beneficial at the right time. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Hi Carol: Reengaging can be simple or sometimes more aggresive tatics are needed. On the simple side, changing the speed, pitch and/or volume of the voice can keep interest. Asking a question or two at random will cause students to pay attention as they may be called on. Stand up and stretch. I once stopped mid sentence and said "okay everyone repeat this loudly: LaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLa". It was so unexpected, within a few seconds, the whole class was laughing and wondering what the heck? Then I went immediately back to my lecture. When asked by a student why I did that… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Carol: Seems like you're using this teaching strategy effectively and appropriately. There are many ways pretesting can help teachers. In the end, it'll provide information, save time, improve learning, and make for a more enjoyable class overall since the emphasis will be focused on needed information more than repititious material. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Marsa: Good use of readily available resources for a very important activity. What graduates can provide is proof that getting through school is possible, and that there are tangible rewards for students who pursue their education seriously. As you have probably observed, graduates are often very upbeat, passionate, and share their personal stories with excitement. Creating that vision in a students mind (a vision of a possible future that promises hope for a better life for them and their families) is a powerful stimulus to learn, study, and maybe improve their commitment to school. I'll take that anytime! Regards,… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Hi Carol: I hope that retirement day is a long ways off! But it's true, for me, the goal is to give all I can given the time and resources I have access to. I have experiences, made mistakes, taken classes, training, earned degrees, and worked in the profession. Also, I've been very active with our state and national professions, published, and wriiten questions for our credentialing organization. Being able to share as much of this accumulation of knowledge is my goal. I know I can't convey a lifetime of work situations into a few classes, but I can inspire,… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Lisa: Guest speakers bring a dimension to the students that is just about impossible to duplicate in the classroom or lab. Same is true for field trips. The thing that makes these activities special is that information shared provides unique insight into the world or profession the students are training for. This can be magically motivating and inspiring for many students, some who may only have vague ideas about what to expect. Also, it's a different "voice", and many times the guest will validate information the teacher has previously discussed. That contributes to more trust and respect. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Deandra: Yes! These recent grads who are now succesful workers can be quite convincing and prove that it's possible to get through school and achieve a higher level of achievement in their lives and families. Seasoned workers as guest speakers can do this as well but sometimes may give too much reality and diminish the passion, enthusiasm, and excitement associated with the profession. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Lisa: I think pretests can be valuable, but are not necessarily needed for every class every time. When they're needede is when it's beneficial to know at what level the class as a whole is performing. Also, comparison between first day and last day analysis can be interesting and reveal trends that might not otherwise be noticed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi Lisa: Senses: Touch and motion are especially good when repetitive skill or manipulative action is being taught. I think just about all of of our senses can be trained to be tuned in to be aware or sensitive or stimulated to enhance the learning process. It just takes training. It's reallt=y amazing how much asscoiation with sensory learniny can occur when there is motion,willingness, and sustained practice. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Lisa: Yes, when we're prepared students recognize time and effort, thought and planning, and gathering of needed resources has occured. These things don't happen by themselves. Respect and trust are more likely too, when a teacher has put in the "elbow grease" to put on na great lesson. Regards, Barry