Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

John, I like to know where more or less emphasis is needed. A pre-test can assist with that. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Trinity, Right. Multiple ways to make the best use of time available is best. I think discussion or review-oriented activities are always a good back-up activity because these take little preparation But there are many other ideas that are just as effective. I think the main thing is to make sure students are kept engaged and the activity is relevant to their cuurent course of study. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Trinity, Instructors are creative folks who can generate original ideas to utilize senses in their classes. I often cite the power of smell by the example of a smell or ordor that instantly brings back a memory, perhaps from long ago. Wow, that's powerful recall! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Trinity, PPT slides can be powerful as a tool for learning, and also overused by instructors. I make sure the lights in the room are on, and I use the black-out switch to explain, elaborate, and convey ideas. I think students begin to lose attention if a PPT slide discussion goes on too long. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

John, Yes, at a minimum I think this is true. Possessing the ability to think on their feet would be another goal, along with conforming to standards of professionalism present in their career area. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using a teaching journal

Trinity, Good for you. I know from personal experience and that of others that a journal can be very beneficial, especially to reflect on and learn from looking back at notes from a previous time. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

John, Yes, these can very inspirational, informative, and motivational. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Tammy, Sounds nice. Students enjoy these kind of outings, and I'm sure they are better prepared becuase of your efforts. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Trinity, Very true. There is a limit to how much activities like viewing photos, lectures, discussions, and research can do to create a realistic vision of some aspect of the work setting. Field trips can potentially create that. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Tammy, One way to address a comment like this is by saying something like, "I like being student-centered because it allows me to do ...XYZ". Barry Westling