Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Hi Sandy: I agree student expect their teacher to know their subject well. But even good teachers who don't plan well, are not prepared, appear busy and disorganized will send the wrong message to their students. It pays to plan time in preparation. That class that runs seamlessly from topic to topic, all resources aligned, teaching aids, ready - that demonstrates readiness, and students admire and appreciate their teachers that take the time to prepare. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Richard: Hearing from individuals in the field, or visiting a site that closely relates to the type of work students will be doing is extremely valuable. You mention the break from regular school. There is that component, but I don't think it's the break that students like but the meaningful experience they encounter through the activity. As you say, your memories are good from when you took a field trip. (there are many ways to nreengage student without having to leave campus for a field trip). Many students get inspired about a potential future that awits them, and that… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Hi Richard: Some teachers use journals well, others use something different, or not at all. I think those that use them probably benefit from their use. Notes, comments, ideas, reflections, observations - these and more can be summarized and reviewed by teachers at a later date to be inspired to even a s reference of sorts. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Karen: This appears to be very frequent and due to electronic grading, instantaneous results are a useful tool. I think we need to personalize our connection with the student too, by offering our assistance, encouragement, and recognition for good work. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Tonya: Right - no one likes surprises. But most students also want to do their best, if given a fair chance. So to me, that's where sharing information about HOW to achieve improvement, as much as WG+HERE they are performing. This can be done by working individiually with students, conveying the feeling that the teacher cares about their success and is willing to spend the time to see improvement. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Tonya: In some cases, the student will have to stretch more to learn the material. But by pretesting, the teacher can see where areas that may need more emphasis are needed. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Hi Tonya: I think the possibility of improved understanding may occur, but not necessarily assured. While many students get inspired, there are some students you wonder why they even enrolled in school, because nothing seems to interest them. But for the most part, students can visulize a potential future for themselves, and brings hope, and hope brings motivation, and motivations brings increased effort that usually results in inp[roved performance. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Hi Kevin: Information technology certainly has created more opportunity to share information. That's why I think conducting frequent "connection" meetings with students, one part of it for status in class with points and grades, but another important part, and that is encouragement and support, advice, and patient, caring assistance to suggest to the student where they can improve. This personal time strengthens the relationship. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Hi Roy: Perfect example of one of the main benefits. Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Hi Michael: True, we lead by example. If the students see us prepared, they may be more inclined to follow suit. Regards, Barry