Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Pamela, One approach may be for the students to participate in the delivery of required portions of lecture that you would normally provide. This activity could be used as a graded assignment, give the students time to study and prepare, and assure engagement. You can always fill in missing information, or provide your own emphasis, if that is needed. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Sherry, Right. Some students won't ever think to ask for help. I like to plan a time where every student gets a "checkup" regarding their status. The personalized interaction can much more meaningful than just handing out a sheet with grade status, (which also may be true with electronic grading). Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Informing students of status in course

Stacy, Yes, and without direction, students will be left on their own to prepare and perform as they think works best. More often then not, even a few words of advice can redirect students to a more appropriate route. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Sherry, Time is so valuable. If I know less time may be needed, I'll use that knowledge to my advantage by spending a bit more time on on other areas that more time may be needed. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using pretests as planning tools

Pamela, Right. And usually students don't mind these kind of assessments. In my classes, I don't grade the pretest so there is no reason not to try their best. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Reengaging off-task students

Stacy, This is spot on! Our role of instructor transitions to advisor at time. When students feel we're there to help, advise, support, encourage, provide suggestions, students should be motivated to keep trying because they know their instructor is working with them "as an ally, not the enemy". Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Using senses in learning

Pamela, Great. I think whenever students are involved in tasks, multiple senses will just sort of automatically come into play. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Selecting instructional media

Sherry, Your pattern seems very effective. Visual images used in the instructional process are uniquely useful to creating retained information, and enhanced concepts of information we want the student to have a clear idea about. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Holli, I think we have succeeded when students become good problem solvers, critical thinkers, and possess the knowledge, skills, and behaviors aligned with their career choice. This takes them beyond mere recall of facts, and elevates them to making appropriate decisions once they begin working. Barry Westling

Barry Westling

Discussion Comment

Goal of educating students

Stacy, I like this. Another similar goal I have is assuring students acquire the knowledge, skills, and behaviors consistent with the job they're training for. Critical thinking and effective communication skills are a component of these also. Barry Westling