Barry Westling

Ana, Yes! We might even call this activity a "reflection journal", because thinking about the days activity, ways class could have improved, ideas about making the class better next go aroiund - these are example of reflection. And when we reflect we are putting our own thoughts into a record that only we will look at. And perhaps, we become a little bit better at what we do each time we contemplate how we can make things better for ourselve and our students. Barry Westling

Ana, Good points, Ana. You underscore the importance that good preparedness has and the impression (good or bad) instructors create depending on their degree of readiness and willingness to assist their students. Barry Westling

Donna, Good points. Really, I think instructors are under the microscope at all times. Students do sense irregularities, even small, subtle changes, and some may (mistakenly) take these moods or changes personally. To whatever degree this is true, it reinforces our need to be aware of how we present ourselves. Certainly if an instructor arrives less than fully prepared, students will notice. They may not say anything (unless it is habitual), but they notice. Barry Westling

Wilmanie, I think it's great when the whole class is appropriately suited to be assigned to a given class or program. Even then, a pretest can still determine what level of prior knowledge exists in that given cohort of students, and fine tuning of the course can occur based on the results of the pretest. Barry Westling

Ken, I think students want and appreciate instructors who convey confidence. It's a fact no one can be a master at all topics. But being assured of the ability to teach, get answers and guide students is a tremendously valuable attribute. Barry Westling

Steven, Yes, we are role models of sorts. It's interesting students expect their instructors to be prepared (whether they are or not). So do our employers. But should an instructor come to class unprepared, students can be very unforgiving. Trust and respect in part, means being always ready to serve our students. Then, we receive that same trust and respect in return. Barry Westling

Mauricio, Yes, and even your own comments about yourself, your observations, comments, thoughts, opinions desirtes, etc. can make for meaningful contributions both now and for reflection later on. Barry Westling

Wilmanie, Right. Using a variety of resources along with select media that corresponds to the lesson adds interest and makes classes more enjoyable. I try to keep different segments as short as possible and mix it up where I can. Students comment they like the shoter chunks of activity and some feel the time flies by in especially long class sessions (4-hours). Barry Westling

Wilmanie, I agree about the inspirational effect a good field trip or informative guest speaker can bring. Often times some students who've been a bit laid back have been seen to get energized and motivated after a good special activity such as this. That's a great value added for students who feel school is just so-so. Barry Westling

Jenny, Three times sounds like a good frequency. Whenever possible I try to personalize sharing grade and performance information because I belive my tone, inflection, and sincerity can be better conveyed, and I think students appreciate my genuine interest in their successfulness and my suggestions for improvement, if needed. Barry Westling