Barry Westling

Hi Larry: To me, it's clear students can never gain all of the learning, education, training, and expeience I've gained over many years in a short course or program. So I have to deend on clear course objectives and student learning outcomes - these I convey in the amount of time alotted. Regards, Barry

Hi Larry: Good thoughts. I believe preparing students with useable knowledge applicable to a trade or career is at least a part of thye goal we're trying achieve. One mesure of that is why students enroll in our schools nd programs, to get a better joband provide a better future for themselves and their families. Regards, Barry

Hi Megan: Both activities stimulate thinking, provide hope and encouragement, tend to motivate and inspire, and create a image in the the student's mind of a potentia successful career. I think students will try harder ad work to achieve that vision. Both of these activities are unique learning strategies that are extremely effectiv. Regards, Barry

Hi Kristi: Time will be a fcator in all cases. But given enough time: * Stronger students mentor weaker students * Students present segments of the lecture * Teacher facilitates instruction vs. providing it * Learning style assssments * Supportive learning environment * Differentiate difficulty: stronfger students more depth while weaker students focus on more fundamentals * All students present to each other (involvement in their own learning) A few thoughts. Regards, Barry

Hi John: I agree about your main point, capable instruction requires capable instructors. Being creative, relating to students as individuals, and having a desiure to help students learn are basic tenets that just about anyone can learn to master. Regards, Barry

Hi Glenn: Great! Reflection over time can be beneicial and enlightening ato a teacher. Because it takes time, both to make entries, and to acculmulate thoughts, ideas, comments, and observations, journalizing really has to become a regualr habit or activity choice by each teacher. Regards, Barry

Hi Amy: Good idea - I believe when students understand what is planned, they will tend to stay focused and pay atention a little bit better. Also, having all resources ready to smoothly transition from topic to topic or activity helps stay on track and students feel the teacher is in control. Regards, Barry

Hi Larry: Well, you've painted an interesting analogy, but it's true, we have some control when planning has occurred vs. the potential for less than wonderful student outcomes without planning and preparation. Regards, Barry

Hi Kelli: Many schools have rules preventing early dismissals because they realize many students expect their full money's worth of education. No teacher should be so unprepared that they have to dismiss class early because they have nothing more to contribute - that'd be awful. Regards, Barry

Hi David: Right! Tailoring orcustomizing to put the emphasis where it will do the most good. Regards, Barry