Barry Westling

Wendy , Right, otherwise the instructor is just asking for problems. Order, structure, daily plan, and clear expectations sets the tone, and students are more likely to comply. Barry Westling

Jason, This is also a good example of the benefits that ample preparation can provide. It's also important to be sensitive to the pulse of the class, their degree of participation and apparent understanding. Too many times the instructor just barrels along assuming students are following each teaching point. Frequent checking for understanding better assures the class is "getting it", and if not, that's a cue to the instructor to back up and review before moving on. Barry Westling

Dawn, Instructors usually want and expect conformity in order to adhere to class or institutional policies. That's needed, but just as important is the understanding that each student will appear as an individual - unique and diverse. For me, that's what makes teaching so fun and interesting. Barry Westling

Dawn, Yes, want and need to know. I wonder how instructors who don't provide expeditious grade information expect their students to make progress in a timely manner. Barry Westling

Cindy, Each has to decide what works best for them. Some institutions give mandatory guidelines about extra credit. For me, anything that demonstrates learning is worthwhile, whether credit is given for it or not. Barry Westling

Cindy, As the content experts, we know first hand what is more important, and what is the "nice to know" material. The exception might be material that's needed for external credentialing or licensing exams. Barry Westling

Jason, We are the expert in the room, although teaching aids and resources can make classes more interesting. But the instructor is the individual that brings life and meaning to all the educational pomp and circumstance. Barry Westling

Jason, If we can "walk in the students shoes" so to speak, that can help give a perspective about how best to modify our delivery to make classes more interesting, memorable and fun. Barry Westling

Frank, Good points. I maintain there are always alternatives to assessing performance. Of course the goal is to measure learning, and any way that effectively achieves that accurately is a good achievement. Barry Westling

Elliot, True, each have their responsibilities. For me, being consistently prepared sets the tone for expectations by students, and routines actually help students in their own readiness and study. The more clear and direct guidelines and course material is presented, the more apt students are to understand and proved learning is more likely. Barry Westling