Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Sandy, My take is based on my daily objectives and a reflection on basically "how can I best get these topics covered?" It varies from class to class, but definitely, variety and activities that keep students engaged make class more interesting and enjoyable. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Sandy, Lab is cool because we get to "do what we do" and assist students in our proficiency's. Describing and discussing is important, but hands on is where most students get to apply the theory. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Sandy, The ability to ask questions and probe details about a job or work setting, is always a welcomed activity. I've observed students are nearly always bolder asking questions, perhaps because they feel the guest won't hold back, and they won't see them again. In any case, these are always informative and interesting activities. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Amanda, Added to your comments, I'd add extra motivation and inspiration. Students can really get "jazzed" by what they see and hear, enough to even turnaround marginal students into top performers! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

ROBERT, I think personalized discussion regarding performance works better than just mere access to the same information, such as electronic grade books. We can demonstrate our empathy, convey we care, and offer support, that otherwise would be difficult to convey in written form. Student rapport is so inportant, and this affords one terrific opportunity to reinforce it. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Ellen, It's so interesting how increasing sensory stimulation can improve memory and recall, and contribute to enhanced student learning. Sometimes, the sense is the focus, other times, it just accompanies the teaching aids and models being demonstrated. But in either case, learning is improved when facilitated by multiple sensory triggers. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Scott, Touching, handling, examining, texture, perhaps even odor can be strong reinforcements of memory and recall. Passing around examples of instruments, tools, parts, or items that the student may see in the work setting do stimulate multiple senses, assist learning, and provideforinteresting discussions. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Jerome, Great! Students appreciate enthusiasm and an upbeat persona. This helps students feel they can ask questions, and approach their instructor with difficulties. Also, students are more apt to model this same behavior when it comes across in a positive manner. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Ellen, We all have our personalities, and I agree that a in-genuine or forced version of ourselves is not received well. But traits, that all can do in their own way, keep classes effective. Among these are being friendly and approachable, patient, tolerent, upbeat in delivery, taking an interest in students, and not taking oneself too seriously. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Scott, I agree that being able to visualize themselves as workers rather students can be a tremendously valuable experience, capable of transitioning from student to graduate/employee, and also motivating students to focus on current studies. Barry Westling