Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Sonia, I agree. The more we have an understanding of our strengths, attributes, and weaker areas, the better we can assist our students from the foundation of what we know works. Also, if continuous improvement as an educator is sought, we have to be honest about what needs exist so that constructive efforts can occur. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Sonia, Yes, often students begin to realize they will soon be out in the workforce, and as a result of the field trip or guest speaker, are motivated to take things a bit more seriously, or are driven to excell based on the information chives from either of these experiences. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

tara, Serious students will value the time and advice given by concientious instructors who prioritize taking time to offer suggestion, support, and encouragement. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

tara, True, most classes have students with varying degrees of prior learning. A short, simple assessment of prior learning can often provide insight into what areas may need to be reviewed, and perhaps what areas less time can be emphasized. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

tara, I agree, and also believe that good instruction and competent guidance are natural precursors to success in a career and in improved lifestyles. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

tara, Solid preparation gives a more likely assurance that students will meet daily and course objectives. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Russell, Well, we work with what we have and within the scope of the environment given to us. I agree that field trips may not always be applicable for whatever reasons. Stimulating students to learn and improving their understanding can occur by many methods, and creative instructors will always strive to find engagement activities that will motivate students for better outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reasons for evaluating students

Brian, My basic approach for evaluation is "to what degree has the student learned or not learned the essential material". Also, like a coach in a sports setting, I want to have a constant pulse on my "players" so I can guide them along the way for success atthe end. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Jonathan, Most of time, instructional units build on each other, so if a student lags behind or is not understanding current material, they may have difficulty with new information. Taking time to keep a pulse on where students are at, and providing feedback is among the essential roles good instructors will perform to assist their student's achieve the best outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Brian, Yes, this is sometimes called "checking for understanding", where students are questioned before moving on tones material. If appropriate answers are not forthcoming, then the instructor knows they need to spend more time before moving on. Barry Westling