Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Amanda, Yes, there needs to be time for correction. And there needs to be time to give clear directives, suggestions, and advice on how grades can be improved, or commend students for outstanding work. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Jennifer, Electronic grading helps provide current grading. But even so, I still want to be able to personally chat with students. This takes a bit of time, but I feel it's worth hearing from the instructor directly, and helps me convey my sentiments for care and interest in student successes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Jennifer, Students need direction. For me, face to face discussion is a better way to convey status, because I can also share my empathy, offer support and encouragement, and special advice and/or suggestions for improvement. I like to make it personal. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Amanda, I know what material and to what depth I want to cover in my classes. A pretest can help me determine if I need to review some beforehand, so that by the course end, the essential material will have been covered (and hopefully, additional "nice to know" material as well). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Jennifer, Starting point - that's a great way to summarize one benefit that pretesting provides. It helps give a realistic place to begin, based on actual student performance. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Jennifer, Some reengagement is simple, such as asking questions to redirect students. But, as you say, when many students seem to be distracted, it's probably time to move to an alternate assignment. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Nicole, There are many senses that can be used directly or indirectly, such as touch, balance, temperature (hot and cold), balance, pain, pressure. Isn't it amazing that an odor can stir up a memory, sometimes from even years ago? Sensory stimulation can just be a byproduct of learning sessions, and not necessarily the primary focal point. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Amanda, I always think of it like this: skills and knowledge; professionalism; communication; interpersonal interaction; and critical thinking. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Jennifer, Right. The ability to effectively communicate, interact with co-workers in a positive manner, and skillful in the tasks required for employment are all among the chief ways we should be preparing our students. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Amanda, We make impressions to our students every day. These can be positive, or less than wonderful. Respectful interaction between student and instructor is facilitated by competent, solid preparation. Barry Westling