Barry Westling

James, True, and commitment to this important challenge cannot be underestimated if we want to be successful, long-term educators. Barry Westling

Stacey, You've provided a good self evaluation. Actually, I believe many instructors are mostly introverts except when they are teaching. But the good thing is if we are sincere, generally kind, prepared for class (or clinical), and confident about our material, we'll be successful in our instructional role. Barry Westling

Judy, I will give bonus questions on exams that allow the student to demonstrate their learning using their own words. Also, since I give a lot of quizzes, I tell students I'll drop the lowest quiz score. This is not extra credit per se, but it's a way to use the students own work to boost a grade somewhat. I feel this is more fair than outright points to pass a class. Barry Westling

ROBIN, For some classes, the extra credit assignment can be a meaningful learning experience. In some courses (like medicine, law, aviation, etc.) where the health and safety of the general public are involved, I believe EC does not have a place. Barry Westling

Donna, How wonderful - what a great resource you are for your students and your friends. Barry Westling

Judy, Yes, students like stories, and I believe they are an effective method to convey ideas and concepts in a simple, understandable manner. Students find past situations, circumstances, goof-ups, or humorous events from the work setting interesting, and nearly always perk up when a story is being shared. Barry Westling

Judy, As to age, I have found that older students need clear, organized class materials and assignments, as most of them have had life and work experiences that had similar expectations.Regardless of age, good planning and organization provides the order and structure that most students need, and responsible instructors will be diligent to provide it. Barry Westling

Salma, One implied thought from your post is interesting, and that is student satisfaction. Many students have personal issues (sometimes major issues) that compete for their time, attention and focus.I believe a well organized class with measurable outcomes provides a respite from the chaos in their lives, and contributes immensely to the much needed sense of accomplishment and achievement. Barry Westling

Rosalyn, Passion is never out of style, and is usually a welcoming attribute for students, as your experience confirms. Barry Westling

Jamie, Lost or wasted class time is not good for anyone. I like to arrive before students, have copies, handouts, or instructional aids organized for passing out. If PPT is to be used, I want to test the computer, projector, and a quick run through of the slides. As students begin to arrive, I like to feel free to chat with students, answer questions -- sort of "just be there" for relating and establishing positive communications. Barry Westling