Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Jennifer, Your post brings up anther question about the effectiveness of the grading system in place. If our purpose is to measure learning, then the grading system needs to be fair and accurate. It would great to have a system in place that is reasonable to the student but comprehensive in measuring learning. Too often there's a deficit between "the grade" and information the student has mastered. I think individual time spent with each student, sharing advice and suggestions for success are as important as being the facilitator for the course because it provides an opportunity to fill in the… >>>

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Jennifer, This is a good method. Asking a question or changing the subject can allow the instructor to redirect the discussion back to the topic at hand. Related, sharing a quick story or past situation at work seems to always capture the attention of students. They like stories. Then, the discussion can be redirected back to the original instructor-led discussion. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Jennifer, Yes, of course we want our students to be successful. Therefore they need the skills, knowledge, and professional behavior required for success on the job. If we could achieve that for each student, that'd be a tremendous accomplishment. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

Diane, Students usually like games, and other activities they view as fun but have an educational theme related to their course of study or basic topic. There's nothing wrong about having fun while we learn. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

David, This sounds good. Students should value their special personal time they have with their instructor, and besides informing of status, needs a student may have can be expressed and solutions explored. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

David, Very good. Planning classes based on specific students needs is a form of being student centered, and that almost always results in better student outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

David, Great! Following this path with regularity will assure your students will never be deprived of one of their most valuable assets...you!. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Shannon, Great! Being organized is really simple, requiring a will, dedication and commitment to planning beforehand. From there, it's all downhill. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

John, This is a great behavior to exhibit in the classroom and I think students benefit from the "instantaneous nature" of on the spot grading. I do this with quizzes, but tests take a little longer. Still, I try to prioritize getting student grade information to them as quickly as possible. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Christopher, I don't think we can underestimate the value of the importance sharing grade and performance status with students. They appreciate it and benefit from sincere advice and suggestions given by experienced educators who convey care and concern for their students successfulness. Barry Westling