Barry Westling

Jason , I agree and believe appropriate humor can help keep attention, interest, and students engaged. One benefit of humor is that it can convey that the instructor is an authentic individual (such as laughing along with students when mistakes or misstatements occur). Removing barriers is important as it contributes to creating an improved learning environment. Barry Westling

Jason , Ideally, immediate reflection works best for me, but half the time, something interferes with post-class quiet time. However whenever that time comes, it's so interesting to notice how many thoughts, ideas, and personal observations come to mind. Barry Westling

Hugh, Great! I have rarely observed students not benefiting from engaging with guest speakers or participating in a field trip experience. The level of interest, enjoyment, and motivation that results is hard to match with just about any other activity. Barry Westling

Sonya, Yes, and connecting classroom to real world is something important but hard to accomplish. Therefore the field trip can help bridge otherwise vague ideas a student may have about some segment of the work setting they're being trained for. Barry Westling

Jessica, Field trips do offer a unique perspective, and the key to maximizing the experience is all in the planning, in my opinion. Barry Westling

Donna, I think graduates who have secured good employment serve as excellent gust speakers! What they may lack in years of experience is usually compensated for by their energy, enthusiasm,and advice. One advantage they offer is they are familiar with the school processes and practices, and bridging the world of school to the world of work. Students are also more apt to relate to "one of their own", rather than a total stranger. Barry Westling

Maria Estela, A good pretest helps the instructor as much as learning student's prior knowledge. It is a planning tool for use in modifying the lessons in order top maximize the time, with emphasis on where it will do the most good. Barry Westling

Maria Estela, A good pretest helps the instructor as much as learning student's prior knowledge. It is a planning tool for use in modifying the lessons in order top maximize the time, with emphasis on where it will do the most good. Barry Westling

Chris, Right! I have found that someone local who is experienced and knowledgeable, who is willing to share their expertise on a particular topic can be very motivational. Of course, the field trip can reveal some aspect that is otherwise unavailable to students in the classroom or laboratory setting. Both activities add to the students awareness about the profession they're training for. Sometimes, a student will really buckle down with their studies after an especially good guest, or out of class experience. Barry Westling

Darcie, One variation of the pretest is simply a brief preview of topics that will be covered. Students may have no idea at all about some or most of the material, but as a preview, it can prepare students for what is to come. Also, I know many instructors will share the same assessment at the end of the course to demonstrate how far their students have come. This can be quite motivational. Barry Westling