Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Developing instructional backup plans

George, Great! For me, most of my PPT lectures are mostly discussions, with very little PPT. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Stephen, I clarify all grading possibilities at the beginning of the course, verbally, and in the syllabus. For me, EC is just not an option. But in your case, A good way to address this situation might be to give EC only for midterm or quizzes. In this way, the final grade will be comprised of only work completed prior to the final exam (no EC to bolster a grade). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Merralinda, Good point about keeping up the level of enthusiasm. I believe we can be very effective in our ability to influence student behavior through positive support and encouragement. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Merralinda, Good for you. Instructors who follow this example usually find they save time, and are able to better zero in on their target audience. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Shon, Ongoing, current, and immediate. Oftentimes, there is precious little time to make needed corrections. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Awarding extra credit

Nick, This makes sense and is a rational approach, especially if only a few points are available. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Manuel, Great! Your students should benefit from this instructional activity, leading to better student outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Role of instructor personality in delivery selection

Cleider, So true. I always liked instructors who were natural, approachable and patient. Their sincerity in helping me was memorable. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Merralinda, Right. Sometimes getting a job is not too difficult, but keeping it is the challenge! Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Jeff, Boy, in this case, current and accurate course status would seem to be paramount. Barry Westling