Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

ROBIN, Yeah, students notice when there has been (or has not been) good preparation. It can create an environment of trust and confidence, and can contribute to high morale too. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Gretchen, These are all good ideas. Sometimes students just need to sort of reset their focus. That can be a brief break, a applicable bit of humor or situational story from the past -- just refocusing the group to continue on with the lesson as planned. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Kimberly, I've found there are two levels in the course planning activity. One is my preferences and what I'm comfortable with. The other is what the students need, and determining ways I can assist my students achieve that level of understanding. Pretesting is among methods that help merge both needs (instructor and student). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Virginia, Surprises are always awful. Can we prevent less than wonderful news? Absolutely. And regular feedback is the key. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Jacob , Great! Prior knowledge of student cohort performance can be invaluable when preparing lessons and end-goals. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Jacob , Feedback is so important. Students will operate in a vacuum if their instructor does not provide regular feedback, suggestions, and advice on making any needed improvements. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Rita, Vocabulary and terminology are half the battle in many professions, especially health or medical. Proper use and understanding can create better student outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Terry, If we asked "what do you know about "XYZ", probably a lot of hands would go up. But to asses their ability to answer questions, apply or solve problems, that'd be a whole different result, I'd bet. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Eric , What I've found is pretests don't have to be too complicated or comprehensive - just enough to be a sense about where the class stands as a group. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mistakes made when selecting course content

Virginia, I've found stories are always a bet. Past situations, circumstances or illustrations can convey a lot, make a point, keep class interesting, and have spend a lot of time. Barry Westling