Barry Westling

Hi Rich: It's true. Prepared teachers who have taken the time and effort to prepare seem to have many more classes that run smoothy, seamlessly, even with interruptions or student questions. When we are prepared, we are better able to deliver our lessons with a minimum amount of interference (such as shuffling for papers, looking for handouts, leaving to get something like copies or equipment, etc.). And students notice. We can be the most knowledgeable person about a topic, but appearing in class unprepared can quickly destroy that impression of competency simply by not being fully prepared or organized. Regards,… >>>

Hi Ron: Fit in - right. I have sometimes used the term "relate" or "connect" when describing the way we interact with our students. Whatever the term, without a connection to them, there will less likelihood of students reciprocating in showing interest, paying attention, completing assignments, and ultimately benefiting fully from the class. We all have a personality that, perhaps can be modified a little bit to fit different situations. But I also think that by being consistent in certain ways, we can relate to almost any group of students. These traits include being approachable and friendly, supportive while showing… >>>

Hi Melanie: You've present some great traits. One could ask, "is it all about curriculum, assignments, points and grades?" or, "are we interested in student learning, knowledge, skills, and applied study that lead to meaningful life and work?" Student centered then shifts the focus from the teacher or institutional needs, to how can we best teach our students. Of course, we will have to rely on some of the organized methods alluded to above, but we want to be willing to adapt, adjust, modify, and/or create a pathway that leads to positive outcome, as much as a following a fixed… >>>