Barry Westling

Jan, Scheduling always requires thought and planning. But in general, I think this is a terrific idea. I do something similar, and in fact, students cannot advance to the next term if they do not receive a minimal passing score on a mock credentialing exam we purchase for each student and that is given in the final week of the term. Even with a passing score, students learn where their weak areas lie, and are coached to identify and strengthen their weaker areas. Barry Westling

Jan, Interesting situation. Something I do when I sense students are just not into it, is apply a little WIFIM (what's in it for me?) This strategy attempts to capture the "what's the most important thing there is to these students at this very moment", and then try to find an exercise or activity that aligns with it. Barry Westling

Jan, Glad you're feeling you're getting benefit from these forums. There really is a lot of useful tidbits that participants have shared over the years. Barry Westling

Kristen, Right! Students want direction, and need that special reaffirmation or advice from their instructor. I like to use this time to encourage students -- even the worst performing, disinterested student deserves encouragement, and perhaps in some small way, that contributes to their outlook and approach to their performance in the classroom. Barry Westling

Leonard, I think students want and need order, and having an organized desk, classroom, materials room or lab creates the tone that this is important, and helps keep students a bit more focused. Barry Westling

Randall, Perfect! Without direction and encouragement, few students can really excel without the knowledge of their performance and status. Barry Westling

Randall, My approach is similar in that I get more results talking with students directly, sincerely to convey my expectations. I like to get students to agree on what the purpose of their presence in the classroom is in the first place. Barry Westling

Lisa, Wonderful. This is a great example of the creativity instructors can tap into. Barry Westling

Randall, Good observation. We have to be true versions of ourselves, and emulating someone else can appear as insincere. Barry Westling

Leonard, Traits like honesty, patience, humility and integrity are appropriate in all settings. Students will be forgiving in technical goofs when they feel their instructor is sincere. Barry Westling