Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Mariann, Very true, especially in medical or health related professions. Knowing where to get information, how to sort through it, and understanding why it's important takes consistent practice to gain reasonable effectiveness. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Mariann, Yes we all hope to be able to reach students. The pretest can help by identifying prior knowledge, at least in part. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Making field trips and guest speakers a part of instruction

Mariann, Sometimes just a small taste of one aspect of the real work setting can be a motivator, enough to regenerate interest and enthusiam for the students course of study. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Kathy, I don't always do pretests, but it's one method to get information about prior knowledge. Gearing lessons to closely match student levels is more likely to result in better retention and desired learning outcomes. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Taiya, Wonderful. Access to information can only help. I believe individual discussion with students allows me to share my ideas for improvement, and convey that I care about the students success. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Taiya, Great strategy. Often, even the whole class can be less than fully informed about a segment of instruction. Understanding where students prior knowledge is can be a great time saver. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Organized and prepared to teach

Taiya, Students sense when an instructor is less than fully prepared. And, as an educator, I know my game is not up to par when I've prepared less than needed. We're not being fair to our students when we give them less than they fully deserve. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Eugene, In my classes, this is not an optional activity but one that I prioritize and require students to participate. I also use an advising report that summarizes what was discussed, what results occurred, and what expectations I have and the students responsibility to comply. Of course, they sign this document and get a copy, which is part of their permanent record. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Eugene, I don't always use a pretest. But it is helpful in situations where time is limited and the emphasis is uncertain. Knowing where more or less emphasis may be needed can be a real time saver. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Eugene, Also, there are the momentary disengaged -- students who are distracted by... whatever. Our charge in this instance is to get them refocused. Asking questions, getting students moving about, changing the format, all of these simple strategies are usually successful for reengagement. When that is not the case, more formal discussion with disruptive students may be needed. Barry Westling