Barry Westling

Angela: Idealistic is a good thing. The trick is to create an learning environment that will produce thoses results. Regards, Barry

Darrell: When students feel comforatble, naturally you've created a good environment for the to particiaptae, ask questions. Being natural and approachable are impotant ways to achieve this setting. Regards, Barry

Darrell: First imprtessions are certainly lasting ones aren't they? We do set the tone and expectatations by our degree of preparation. Regards, Barry

Joseph: Great. You know, Stephen Covey (7 Habits of Highly Successful People) states "Begin with the end in mind. I think pretests are sort of like that. Let's first see at what level the student is operating at, then tweak the course to place emphasis on weaker but essential areas, even if that's at the expense of listed topics (but less impotatant). BTW, that last sentence is one of Coveys values grid. Regards, Barry

Rebecca: No disagreement about making up a missed test for good reason. I say that situation is different from giving extra points to deadbeat students who have not earned the points (or knowledge), yet are allowed to make up extra work (and extra credit) to pass the class. To me, it's not about the grades or points, it's about the learning. Wow...especially in a medical or health-focused career area. Regards, Barry

Kimberly: You're right, a well prepared teacher does convey confidence which usually makes the class run a little smoother. Also, students sense the teacher knows what they're talking about and that lends credibility to their knowledge base. Can also contribute to better respect for the teacher (and classmates as well). Regards, Barry

Hi Tony: To me student centered means changing the focus of instruction from "my curriculum and plans" to "how can I best teach these students what they need" even if that means deviating from standard curriculum. Student centered vs. institutional or curriculm centered. Regards, Barry

Tony: Personalizing can occur, but no guarrantees. I think if the instructor is consistent in the approach abd delivery, that consistency helps keep students willing to be open to instruction. Courtesy and respect, being approachable, volunteering assitance, and conveying the teacher cares about the success of the student ore all part of personality that results in positive student results. Regards, Barry

Joseph: I'm in agreement with you. In fact, our diversity is what makes learning more interesting for students. One comment I think is important is instructors should be consistent in their delievery, as student tend to not like surprises or unexpected changes. The other is to be open to change. Like you said, "improve on our weaknesses". For some, they're not even aware there is a need for improvement. So, be willing to change, then carry through seeking methods to make those changes a reality. Regards, barry

Joseph: Well, in carpentry, this kind of thing happens all the time. What I mean is they will cut, sand, bend, twist, whatever task is needed to get the parts to fit. I think that's a lot like customizing our efforts to get the student the knowledge they need, even if it means deviating some from what the curriculum states should occur. Regards, Barry