Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Edie, Wonderful. There is no rulebook about what kind of notations can be recorded. The main thing is that there's a record of something that the writer observed, experienced, or found interesting or significant - something that can be reflected on and referred to, even if it's just to recall a memorable moment. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Don, I think it very hard to be motivated when hope of success is diminished. Yet, simple encouragement and conveying we care can turn around even the most hopeless situation, especially when discussed early on, and bot student and instructor are committed to do all they can to succeed. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Don, Yeah, and often, the most valuable activity an instructor could do would be to simply circulate around the classroom answering questions while students work on "homework-oriented" assignments. When I plan a lesson, I try to determine what resources will most useful - sometimes, the instructor is the best resource for a given assignment. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Being a student-centered instructor

Steven, No prob. It's interesting to me that many mistakenly use "peda" when they mean "andra" (but don't know the difference). Anyway, since many of our "adult" students often behave like kids, your comments have been enlightening. Thanks for your posts. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Michelle, I believe it's essential for the student to trust that their instructor has the students success in mind in every assignment and graded activity. Sharing ideas, giving advice, and offering suggestions convey we care, and also provides an opportunity to encourage our students. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Steven, Right. Without feedback, there really can't be effective communication. And discussing grades and performance in person helps establish a bridge of trust, respect, and perhaps commitment - both from the student by understanding their progress, and the instructor who can convey they are there to assist in meeting desired student outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Michelle, Sure, and pretests help with tweaking the curriculum too. If I know I have to spend a bit more time introducing a new idea, that's going to save me time overall, and it'll benefit the students with better understanding. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Steven, I believe students like stories, and it's one of the better ways to capture the attention of students, especially when they're beginning to lose attention. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Michelle, It's true, we can change lives, or at least improve the outlook and circumstances many students find themselves in. Instilling the desire for life-long learning can help sustain their successfulness. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Michelle, Great. And I find that a good field trip tends to motivate, stimulate interest, and encourage students to want to work harder and take their studies more seriously. Barry Westling