Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Richard: Steven Covey says "seek first to understand, then be understood" (from Seven Habits book). When we strive to gain a greater understanding of ourselves, and are willing to be honest with ourselves in making improvements, I think we stepped into a greater level of commitment to our profession and are doing our students a great servive as the result. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting sufficient course content

Hi Elizabeth: Here's a great opportunity to be creative. If you have to follow a set curriculum, your challenge is to make it interesting with examples, illustrations, sttories, case studies, work examples, or situations that you've experienced. As long as it relates to the topic, you ought to be able to have an interesting and enjoyable class. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Elizabeth: Appearences aside, a prepared teacher will benefit their students by maximizing their time with pertinent and essential information, sequenced and organized in logical sessions, resources and media ready and available, with attention to the needs of the student. As an aside, students will notice that all this just didn't happen, but is the result of planning and effort by the teacher, which they'll appreciate and respect. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Hi Elizabeth: There are many ways to recognize student achievement, be it formal or informal. One way, as you describe, is to simply add one type of credit into a different category. Recognition for quality work should be identified and praised. In all cases, fairness must rule. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Hi David: Good back up plans are easy to implemment, can be initiated on short nbotice, are low tech and do not rely on electronic media, and are related to the current topic or subject matter. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Kathleen: All good reasons. It also gives the teacher an opportunity to offer encouragement, support, assistance, and show that they care about the students success. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi James: True - demonstration can be quite a memorable teaching technique for certain students who can relate to ideas when they're able to handle, touch, manipulate, etc. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Marshall: Creating that learning environment only comes from time, effort, and thought as to how it can be planned for optimal results. Rarely will things just fall into place without preparation. The organized teacher provides a smooth, relaxed, and logical approach to the delivery of the course material. This helps students relax as well. It also sends the message the teacher is ready to teach, and therefore in charge of how things will go. Being available to students for questions is also a part of preparation. Being avialable before and after class (because we've planned for that time)to connect… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Hi Jaclyn: Culinary is particulary a great example for senses used in the instructional process. Outside of culinary, listening to enjoyable background music while studying, using colored paper (vs. white) to print handouts, listening to recorded notes - a few examples where senses can complement the learning experience. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Hi David: I use the "quote system" also. I try to select applicable messages that align with the daily topic - of course, not always possible. I look for and save quotations from all kinds of resources. The more contemporary seem to strike a chord with the current generation of students, moreso than something from the 1900's. But there are some jewels out there, aren't there? Regards, Barry