Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Lola: These are good examples, and some days, things just don't go a planned, thse are great ways to keep the students busy ad productive, rather than wasting a few hours due to unplanned interruptions in the days plan. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Jorge: Yes, but not just improvement. Suggestions for planning, encouragement and support, and caring words of concern can be received well by sudnts who may feel something more than just academics is neeed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi Lola: I believe student can learn to to "tune-in" to an heightened awareness of their senses, with a little instruction and training. Senses both in class and outside of class in study, can be used to improve the learning process. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Lola: Teachers use journals different ways for different purposes. Comments, observations, ideas, student comments, memories, what worked/what did't, etc. The best part of a journal is the long term benefit of review after several classes or years. Growth, change, improvement - these are among traits teachers see modified as time progresses, and that's invaluable information. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Diego: Yes, students are usually quite motivated by the field trip experience. And once thy get a vision of a possible future, they may work harder in class to assure they complete the program successfully. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Marshall: Yes. all studnts wnat to know where they stand. Electronic gradebooks havemade this more instantaneous, but it still lacks the human touch of encouragement, support and offering assistant or suggestions for improvement, things that the electronic grade can't do well (although comments can be added, it just no the same as when the teacher is show care and concern). Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Deborah: Gaps in the delivery surely stand out if the teacher is unprepared. A prepared teacher has preceded their lesson with study-review, time, thought, effort, planning, and consideration how best to present the lesson. This will show quite evidently, or not if ommitted. Over time, students recognize when the teacher is prepared and they are not. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Hi Margie: Most classes have a variety of students with a range of past learning abilities and current capabilities. Some instructors will use their stronger students to assit the waeker students, sort of like mentors or tutors. Other will separate the class into groups wth high, medium, lower performing students, then customize the assignment based on the "stregth" of the group. Same assignment, just differing level of engagement or difficulty of assignment. Also, having stronger students facilitate some portios of the class allows them the expression they need using the abilities they possess. Testing has has to be fair. Using… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Hi Margie: You've identified some good points. It is key to degine what it is that needs to be taught, then deciding on how best to deliver that material. Variety in media selection definitely makes a difference. But also, choosing the correct media for the lesson is also inportant. Keeping the students in mind helps focus what resouces will attain both effective learning and interest by the students. This activity takes time, thought, effort, planning, and communication. And it should be reviewed by peers or supervisiors who are willing to make constructive comments. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Hi Margie: Your opening sentence really says it all. Learning vs. process. Every action we take that individualizes the instruction comes a step closer to student centered. Regards, Barry