Barry Westling

Hi Bryon: I think a prepared teacher has taken time, thought, effort, and planning, and organized a thorough lesson with all needed resources, media, and teaching aids. The class runs smoothly, transitionaing from topic to topic, with students confident in the teachers abilites and comfortable asking questions. This doesn't happen automatically, but is preceded with care and preparation by the teacher. I do agree that students are likely to be more respectful (because we are respecting their time and effort by good preparation). Regards, Barry

Hi Bertram: Nice sentiments, I think when we're student centered we sort of have to change our focus from our "process" and begin to think about the students "learning". Student centered implies we do what will best teach the student even if it means we may have to adjust our regular curriculum somewhat. Regards, Barry

Hi Jamison: Yes, when were prepared, students see an expert, full of knowledge, waiting and ready to share a thorough lesson with all needed resources, media, and teaching aids at hand. Underprepared tends to waste both student and teachers time, can create a degree of chaos, and dosen't make for a creative, energetic, enthusiatic learning experience. Regards, Barry

Hi Jamison: Comfortable, confident, prepared teachers are much more apt to provide a smooth, enjoyable and interesting lesson. We all have a version of our natural selves, and I think just being sincere and honest with students will always assure them we know our stuff and we want to present it for maximum retention. Regards, Barry

Hi Jamison: Good idea. These days, with so much dependence on electronic or technology to facilitate classes, our dependence can give false assurance that all will go well. Therefore, I think the value of have good back up plans are relevant. For me, having something I can initiate on short notice, is pertinent to the general course of study, and something students will feel is beneficial, where we're not just wasting their time. Over the years, some of my back up plans have been included in the regular curriculum (as I stumbled on to some really good material). Regards, Barry

Hi Jamison: Good analogy - if it was relative to us as students, so it is with our students. I think frequent sharing of grades, points, and status keeps us connected to the student so they feel we're real, approachable, and care about their success. Regards, Barry

Hi Joseph: Exams is part of it. Frequent sharing grades, points, or status in the course helps students identify where additional study is needed in order to meet or exceed the goals of their courses. We can also share words of encouagement and support showing we care about their success, too. Regards, Barry

Hi Melissa: Great commentary! For me, student centerentered suggests that as an instructor, I am willing to make adjustments in my planned curriculum in order to customize or individualize a students training plan. I will prioritize their learning style and background in order to assure my existing sytems and practices have little interference with the students learning - to the degree possible without interfering with other students learning. Regards, Barry

Hi Medhin: Good. Sometimes the institutional standards are preestablished and the teacher has little control over changes. But when we do have some control, balance, accuracy, completeness, and aligned with course objectives are among the considerations. Regards, Barry

Hi Ray: Great. Yeah, that lifelong learning is what is going to take the next generation to places beyond whee we are at , here in the present. Critical thinkers and those striving for more once they get a foundation are the ones that will tend to rise to successful careers. Regards, Barry