Barry Westling

Barry Westling

About me

Activity

Tina, Yes, students need to know their status. If we expect progress from them then regular and frequent progress reports are also needed. And I think personalizing them is better than looking at the information on a computer screen or on a sheet of paper without the ability to discuss. Barry Westling
Tina, Discussion is always a good re-engagement technique. Getting students to talk, open up, share -- this gives insight about what their thinking is, their level of understanding, and just makes for a more interesting class. Barry Westling
Tina, Right! I think students sometimes have only a vague idea about some aspects of the profession they're studying for, and a good field trip can help focus the students attention on select aspects that they may have had no idea at all their work setting included. Barry Westling
Allison, This is a good system to follow, especially if there is a discussion period planned for students who need attention from the instructor about needed improvements, adjustments, or changes in study habits. The "personal touch" can have a lot more significance than mere passing out numbers on a piece of paper or computer screen. Barry Westling
Stephen Dable, Getting grades, and grading information shared with students should be a priority. Students count on the information, and if any changes are needed, getting grade information sooner will give more time to make needed corrections. Barry Westling
Allison, I think many if not most instructors would tend to agree with your sentiments. We're interested in learning more than points or grades, at least, that's my opinion. Barry Westling
Christopher, I have always found the field trip experience an inspiring experience for my students. Sometimes, even marginal students will get motivated to buckle down after they realize "I'll soon be working in a simialr work setting". That's a powerful motivator. Barry Westling
Shellonda, Good idea. I think many instructors do the same, in their own way. The value of evaluations is to determine how students are progressing, and good instructors will consider the trends and work to see improvement for the students they're instructing. Barry Westling
Allison, Your use of bonus points seems very reasonable. What is excessive is when students fail to do required assignments and their grade is lowered to an undesirable level, and they ask for a supplemental "extra credit" assignment to buffer their low performance. The same could be for low quiz scores, test scores, or other low or absent assignments. In this instance, it's not fair to the other students, and the final grade does not truly reflect their learning. Barry Westling
Kenneth, I believe all instructors prepare and present in their own way. Of course, each has to know the subject matter thorougly. Attributes any can develop is the ability to be approachable, patient, kind and courteous, and fair. Add in a good sense of humor and you have the makings of a unique teaching resource. Barry Westling

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