Barry Westling

Ryan, I think students get bombarded with PPT slides too much. I only use it when I can determine that is absolutely the best method to inform students of material they need. Usually, and in most cases, there are alternative methods that are just as effective. PPT is probably best for graphics, such as photo's illustrations, graphs, charts, tables, schematics, diagrams, and related visual images. Barry Westling

Ryan, Yes, and more stress is something we all can do without. Students do look to us for guidance and direction -- some might need it as a break from the chaos going on in the backside of their lives. When we're prepared, we convey we care, we know what we're doing, and we can assist the students to achieving the success they're seeking. Barry Westling

Ricardo, I have seen students be so motivated by an exceptional field trip, it actually changed their whole attitude toward taking their classes serious, with a complete turnaround in performance and focus. Now that's a powerful activity that can do that. Barry Westling

JOE, Yes, too often, struggling students find they're too deep in the hole to make a passing grade, or at least achieve a grade they're satisfied with. Correction takes time, and I too believe early intervention, communication, and sharing of grade information provides the best foundation to establish a game plan. A quote I've come across..."the first rule of holes--when you're in one, stop digging!" Barry Westling

JOE, Yes, these and other hats are worn when fulfilling our job responsibilities. Students appreciate sincerity and honesty too. Each one has a diverse method to give advice or contribute humor into the lesson. I believe some trust by students may be lost if the instructor is insincere, or conveys that they are anything less than an authentic version of themselves. Barry Westling

JOE, Of course respect is a two way street. But in either case, it has to be earned. We can do our job by valuing the students time through our preparation. Students can show their respect by dutifully completing their assignments, acting responsibly, and demonstrating a professional behavior. Barry Westling

Mike, More often then not, there are a host of resources an instructor has access to but chooses not to use, mostly because of time and higher priorities for learning the material. But in a pinch, these can serve as wonderful, useful, and instructional back-ups. Barry Westling

Jviveros, In these instances, I would think problem solving, critical thinking, customer service, and technical skills would among the higher priorities as goals. Barry Westling

Jviveros, Yeah, we really have only one chance to make a good first impression. And actually, we are role models, and students will tend to emulate what they see their instructor doing. Barry Westling

Ashlee, Real world often does open the eyes of students, who may have only vague ideas about some glamorous or fictional aspects about a job. The field trip and guest speakers can help provide a sense of reality, along with a source of optimism and encouragement about the true components a job offers. Barry Westling