Barry Westling

Santiago, Sure, when students get a glimpse of some aspect of their job, that often encourages and motivates, almost more than other classroom or lab-oriented activities. Barry Westling

Micheal, After I examine the course objectives, I try to think about what is the the best way I can convey this material to my students. For instance, I will only use PPT slides if I feel there is no better way to assist getting my point across. As you allude to, our job should be to help students understand. Barry Westling

Dennis, Just like students who are well prepared for a test, it really doesn't matter too much what you ask them, if they're prepared, they can answer most questions. We have the advantage of knowledge, training, education, and work experience, so preparation should comprise an organized effort to lay out what students need to know. Barry Westling

Micheal, Sometimes this is true, and it adds credibility to the instructor and reinforces the importance of the subject. Barry Westling

Kathy, I think more senses, whether in study or in application in the classroom is bound to improve retention of needed material. For instance, with personal study, I suggest writing notes, then rewriting and summarizing (perhaps by word processor), the reading the notes aloud (perhaps into a tape recorder), then playing back, listening to the information while reading the notes (or just listening), then testing oneself, and then finally, testing others. Any area that falls short has just been identified as an area that still needs attention.. Repetition works well for recall information, Barry Westling

Joshua, Electronic grading systems are great, in part for the reasons you stated. Even so, I think there is merit in meeting with students on a personal, individual basis periodically. I think this allows us to convey we care, offer advice, support and encouragement, and build credibility and trust between instructor and student. Barry Westling

Joshua, This sounds like exactly what will benefit you, as the instructor, the most. Barry Westling

DENISE, Great example. I think as students become actively engaged in their lab experiences or even many demonstrations in the lecture, multiple senses are just automatically called into action. We can plan specific exercises to enhance the sensory experience, but relying on our own innate sense is often just as good. Barry Westling

Joshua, Of course we're interested in preparing students for the job market, and as you say, the ability to communicate think and solve problems, and be a professional are all traits that an employer will embrace. Barry Westling