Barry Westling

Jennifer, Right. Let's face it, we all have strengths and areas that we can improve on. Awareness of ourselves about where we shine and where we don't is one part. The more important part is what we do about it. And I think better instructors first recognize where improvement is needed and then are willing to do all that is needed to make the weaker, stronger. And strangely, humility regarding a weaker trait adds to the credibility of an individual. Barry Westling

Ricmanuel, Yes. Motivation is derived when students sense they are making progress towards something they value. We have the opportunity to provide that information to help motivate and inspire. Barry Westling

Ricmanuel, Yes. When we have knowledge of prior student learning it helps plan and conduct our classes better. Barry Westling

Julie, I think students appreciate instructors who demonstrate confidence because that make them feel more at ease, that they're learning something, and classes run more smoothly because of the instructors expertise and personal understanding. Barry Westling

Ricmanuel, I think as long as students feel their time is not being wasted, they will benefit from fun activities, especially when used as a back-up plan. Barry Westling

Ricmanuel, Students are more apt to trust and respect their instructor when they realize there has been significant and appropriate preparation preceding the class. Barry Westling

Mabelle Joy, Yes, EC can be viewed as unfair by the good students who are diligently working hard for their grades based on the assigned work given and discussed at the beginning of the course. EC to bolster grades rarely improves student learning. If an EC assignment is that good, it ought to be part of the regular, required curriculum. Barry Westling

Mabelle Joy, Great idea. This would reengage students while making the time productive, effective, and enjoyable. Creative activities like this help students retain the required information. Barry Westling

Mabelle Joy, "Words of comfort, skillfully given are the oldest known therapy to man" (Louis Nizer). In the healing arts, what we say conveys that the patient is in safe hands. Students can be smart, but without the professionalism, courtesy, care, and compassion they are less effective in their mission. Barry Westling

Mabelle Joy, Very good. For me, I am not anxious and feel very calm when I feel prepared, and that conveys a smoother delivery, more complete and organized thoughts, and overall a better experience for my students. Barry Westling