Barry Westling

Gurinder, Policies like are good in that they standardize the position of the college. I lean away from EC myself, and believe accurate measurement of learning is diluted when too much EC is employed. Barry Westling

Gurinder, Obviously, more senses involved in learning contribute to more opportunity for retention of needed information. Lab, demonstration -- activities that involve handling or manipulation often provide use of most senses in many cases. There are assessments that intend to help identify personal learning styles, but I have found that, although they indicate general tendencies, they are not always very accurate. Barry Westling

Gurinder, Many instructors who teach more difficult course or topics realize, as you have, that any preparation or pre-assessment is a worthwhile effort, as insight into where the current class prior knowledge is valuable information when planning out adjustments to the curriculum. Barry Westling

Lisa, Lists like these are good for setting expectations. When these are done at the outset, it helps create the tone and format the class will take, and give students clear guidelines about what to expect. Barry Westling

Santiago, And students will appreciate that their instructor cares enough about their progress to take time, give advice, suggestions, and offer support for their instructional pursuits. Barry Westling

Lisa, This often works well. Sometimes students just need a little "snap" to get them refocused, and usually doesn't require too much. Barry Westling

Emad, Yep, trust and credibility have to be earned, and are delicate sentiments -- students stay aligned with the instructor as long as they feel they are approachable, fair, competent, and are assisting them reach their goals. If these (and others) are violated, that can be trouble. Barry Westling

John, When students appear each day for class and see all needed resources are presents, copies made, classroom in order, that does convey time and effort has gone into the competent delivery of course material. Barry Westling

Pamela, Every individual who comes to speak or guides a tour has a vast array of their own past experiences that may be similar to information already shared in class, but their unique expression and specific circumstances make the class activity more interesting and valuable. Barry Westling

Gurinder, I have also found that a guest speaker will confirm information I have shared but also deliver it with a little different spin, perhaps from a different perspective. That adds variety and makes the topic memorable. Barry Westling