Barry Westling

Kimberly, Grading rubrics are one way to help assign grades fairly, objectively, with the goal of accurately determining to what degree a student has learned required course material. Rubrics can also inform students beforehand how their grade will be determined (unless the rubric contains key assessment information students shouldn't see beforehand). Barry Westling

Brian, I agree, the sharing of class and grade information provides the perfect opportunity to demonstrate we are supportive, and this helps create an enhanced relationship with each student. Of course this carries over to the the classroom setting wherein students are likely more comfortable spending and interacting with their instructor. Barry Westling

Brian, Nothing breaks a distracted student lack of focus better than being called on to answer a question. If done frequently, randomly with all class participants, and consistently in every class, students may soon begin to feel that they have to pay attention because more than likely, they're going to be called on. I do daily quizzes, and I will usually add at least one question that was answered by a student the previous day. In this way I try support and subtlety reward the students for thier contributions to the discussion. Barry Westling

Brian, The so called "soft skills" you list are every much as important as the knowlege and skills required for the technical aspects of the course. We want our students to be prepared in all ways so that their employers recognize the value of what the graduate possesses, and confirms they made a good hiring decision. Barry Westling

Brian, It's so true that our actions convey our care, interest, and success of the students is a primary focus. Students want and need order, and these kind of actions help reinforce that, and in doing so, provide comfort a sense of security that their instructor has everything under control. Barry Westling

Shawnte, Right. We can steer students in the right direction when they begin to falter. That's why, for me, I like to me early on, give advice and encouragement, and do it in person as frequent as possible Barry Westling

Jeffrey, Students really thrive on information, including that pertaining to their class status. For me, this is a high priority. I like to share grade and course status in person, frequently, and early on so there is time to make adjustments to my advice and/or assistance. Barry Westling

Shawnte, Yes, where to begin, and also edit, modify, adjust, or put more or less emphasis in areas that are identified by the pretesting. Barry Westling

Jeffrey, I agree, although I don't always do pretesting. I only do it when I feel I have limited knowledge about a patients prior knowledge. Barry Westling

Shawnte, Yes, and of course we want to ensure they receive the skills and knowledge needed for successful work setting jobs. Good behaviors, critical thinking, and professionalism would also be appropriate goals. Barry Westling