Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Randolph, Variety helps keep interest and makes class more enjoyable. Because there's so much varied media available, we have to be selective in choosing only that which will be effective towards meeting course objectives, and assist students learn...and understand Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

michael, Yes, and said in a different way, students will usually yield to the level of expectations conveyed by the instructor of their class. Setting a higher standard through preparation will soon become "business as usual" for students, and of course, they will likely achieve better outcomes as the result. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

michael, That's an interesting point about student perceptions, and I think true in many cases. A good field trip often motivates and inspires, and students do begin to realize that there is a real profession out there that they soon will be a part of. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Randolph, Yes, and I've found that the extra assistance really doesn't take that much time but is nearly always appreciated by the student. This also helps build trust and mutual respect. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

david, Many students will opt to take the easy way if given the chance. Extra credit in lieu of failed or missing coursework may raise a grade some, but does little to improve learning (in many cases). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

david, It's frequently a challenge to determine what will work best for a new class to maximise the instructors time while assuring students will receive the best learning opportunities. Pretests can help. Hopefully there will be more hits than misses. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

John, Great. Students usually respond well to life experiences and stories. These create mental images that can place the student in the moment, and are a great way to reinforce course material. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Namisha, EC does influence grades, and points earned may help struggling students achieve a passing score. Although we want our students to be successful, too much adjustment becomes only about points and grades, and no longer about learning, which of course is what we are striving for. Also, students who don't need or want EC may feel it's unfair. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Aretha, Knowledge regarding prior knowledge is tremendously valuable when time, resources, and/or schedules are scarce or limited. Really, when is that not the case. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Aretha, I think extra credit is a great tool to affect grades, but doesn't do much for learning. But in some settings, EC may be perfectly satisfactory. Barry Westling