Barry Westling

John, Yes, and really, student centered means we are willing to put aside our regular plan in order to accomodate individual student needs. And students appreciate it when they realize their instructor cares enough to give some individual attention. Barry Westling

Kellie, Right, sharing grade information is nearly as important as the content information itself. Students need feedback for the maximum degree of progress to occur. And making it personal adds more than than passing out printed information (or electronic grading). Barry Westling

Gordon, I like to pretest when I'm unsure just how much my current class has learned prior to beginning. I don't want to waste theirs or my time. Barry Westling

Dona, Tangible handling, models, movement - these are examples of activities that help reinforce retention of key information, and may help link memorized information useful for critical thinking type of questions or situations. Barry Westling

Dona, For me, I want my students to be able to seamlessly transition from student to worker, and that happens, I feel I have achieved success in my goal. Barry Westling

Kellie, Much of these sentiments could also be said of the students. They can sense when their instructor is in control, prepared, and ready with with all needed resources. Barry Westling

Michael, Most everyone wants to know their status in a class. Electronic grading helps, but there is nothing like the reassurance that can be provided by a caring instructor who can give support along with advice, in a interpersonal discussion. Barry Westling

Michael, Sufficient suggests "just the right amount". Instructing essential course material is often unpredictable due to student questions, longer explanations, or even technical problems that result in delays. This course touched on back up plans, and that's a good way to help balance the needed material with the needed time. Barry Westling

Manuela, Right. We are better at our jobs when we are prepared, organized, with all needed resources and materials available. Our time is so precious, to waste it on having to scramble around is just a big waste. And of course, being unprepared does little to benefit students. Barry Westling

Dawn, For guest speakers, the ability for students to ask questions is one of the great benefits of this special event. I've found students are often very bold in the type of questions they ask, and fortunately, most guest are very generous in their responses. This can be quite helpful, as usually the type of questions asked can elicit motivation and inspired actions by students as a result. Barry Westling