Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mary, Media, like any instructional tool, ought to be aligned with the course objectives, appropriate for the audience, and in my opinion, not too long. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Pamela, Perfect. Get a sense about prior learning to forge a game plan for success in later classes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Carolyn, Great. This sounds like a variation of "real-time case study". what's good is students usually have to apply some type of critical thinking, and I've found case studies are among the effective ways to practice this necessary skill, especially for health or medical related programs. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Megan, Sometimes what we have planned runs short, or other planned activities cannot occur as planned. That's where having a collection of back-up plans can be a real life saver. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Mary, Great way to add variety, and make the class more interesting. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Richard, Certainly. Of course there is a core of material that needs presented, based on learning objectives. But how that gets delivered varies from class to class. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Megan, I think most instructors are flooded with ideas, but some good ideas are lost if they are not written, documented, or recorded for reference at some later date. That's where one great use of a journal is invaluable. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Richard, There are many little tricks that are simple, but help make the students school life a bit clearer, organized, and structured. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Carolyn, I've observed that the "back-side" of many students lives wrought with personal issues, chaos, and dozens or similar stressors. I think our classes create a form of respite from the chaos in their lives, but that is only true when the instructor has adequately prepared, has an organized plan, laid out clear expectations, and is consistent in their delivery of course material. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Mary, I like this idea! It seems like it encourages accountability by students, and also reinforces needed skill required for successful work opportunities in the their career setting. Barry Westling