Barry Westling

Richard, I think providing encouragement and recognition is nearly always a motivator. I try to do that each time I meet with students and when done with sincerity, it is always received well, even if I have to also share grade information that needs improvement. That personal, one-on-one discussion time is very important in establishing a good rapport. Barry Westling

Paul, A challenge for any instructor is to use a grading system that accurately measures learning. Although I believe it's possible for an extra credit assignment to add to student learning, I also think that it usually distorts the grading system by virtue of it being "extra". So if points and grades are the focus, EC is OK to use. If we want to measure learning, we have to rely on the grading system in place at the beginning of the course. Barry Westling

Yolanda, Great! The cool thing is a pretest doesn't have to be long or contain too many questions to get a pulse on the class. Making adjustments to meet the needs of the present class will result in a customized plan that helps this class with course material. As instructors, we benefit when we know something about the prior learning of our students. Barry Westling

Richard, I agree this is helpful. In my experience, students will not always be honest about their past (for whatever reasons) and they will try to portray their reasons for attending school in a way they think will sound good. If we are willing to spend time with students individually, we can perceive where their strengths are along with areas needing improvement. Barry Westling

Paul, Yep, when learning can be made fun, students will participate, enjoy it, and be more likely to retain any instructional material provided in it. And games that provide instruction is way better than plain busy work that may or may not produce any significant learning. Barry Westling

Richard, Right. I too believe our goal is to transform individuals from one lesser place they've been to a better place they're headed. Changing habits, sharpening courtesey and etiquette, and developing professionalism are wonderful traits to aim for besides the requisite skills and knowledge associated with their training. Barry Westling

Denise, For me, I find the biggest benefit to preparedness is my readiuness to conduct my classes smoothly, orderly, and thoroughly. That doesn't happen by accident. Barry Westling

Stephanie, The biggest benefit to me is the personal reflection I make about myself, and then reviewing it at a later time. I see growth, improvement, and personal insights that only time can reveal, hence the benefit of keeping a journal. Barry Westling

Thomas, Perfect! This is a great example how we can use simple, creative tools to assist in making our classes better each session. Barry Westling

Charmelia, I'm with you. EC focuses on points and grades, and little on learning. Barry Westling