Barry Westling

Barry Westling

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Hi Gingi: Many students would do just as you indicate, try to earn the highest grade. Yet, a grade (composed of various points) may not reflect learning, especially if it has been artifically raised by unassisgned points in lieu of assigned, graded assisgnments. I think that's where the opponents of EC raise their objections. Regards, Barry
Hi Gingi: I think "tests" stress most people out. Knowing that we're interested in comparing results at the beginning and again at the end of the course seems it would diminish some of that stress. And knowing it's ungraded would contibute to reducing the stress as well. Regards, Barry
Hi Gingi: Good point. Think about our students - "how best can I convey today's lesson". Regads, Barry
Hi Jake: Surely true, and instructors benefit their students who regularly practice this preparation. Regards, Barry

Hi Jake: Obviously we are going to use what we know best and are the most comfortable. Much of what we do as instructors seems very much task oriented. Developing a greater understanding of ourselves, if we want to be honest and see true improvement, is a deeply personal matter that requires introspection, self analysis, and coming to terms with possible unpleasant reality. Teachers who are willing to endure a longterm effort at self improvement will beneifit their students in the end. But I also have to say there really is no end, as this process continues to evolve until… >>>

Hi Clarence: As teachers, we have a mission and a plan to achieve the objectives of the course. Periodic measurement of the degree to which students have learned is necessary if we want to define whether we've been successfulk (or not). Regards, Barry
Hi Clarence: Good plan. I have had stronger students "mentor" weaker students, which makes the mentors feel special, and the weaker students appreciative. Just another way to make the best of what resources we have available. Regards, Barry
Hi Clarence: Very true. Also, some delivery methods are so theatrical, comical, critical, or over the head of the student, no matter how good the curriculum might be, students are going to miss the message because of the messenger. I think honesty, sincerity, a bit of humor, and being a genuine version of ourselves usually proves successful - we shouldn't have to feel like we need to imitate someone, other than our own self portraying the role of a professional teacher! Regards, Barry
Hi Gerry: Very ingenious method of assessing things from a students point of view. I can see this is kind of an inexact technique, but trends, or common topics needing more review would probably become apparent. Thanks for sharing! Regards, Barry
Hi Clarence: We can teach by being good role models, that's for sure! When we're prepared, students notice, and maybe be inclined to emulate a teacher they respect. "Winging it" just can't cut it". Students expect and deserve more. Regards, Barry

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