Barry Westling

Barry Westling

About me

Activity

MALCOLM, This a good example of having a useful resource at the ready, especially for something like algebra, where practice is a significant component of the learning process. Barry Westling
Stella, This is true. And our main job is provide effective instruction every class session, and I can't that possibly occurring without adequate preparation. Our students expect that. Barry Westling
Martin, Yes, it's especially nice when a guest speaker or tour facilitator speaks about something that reinforces what the instructor has been emphasizing in class. These opportunities to visit real time workers or work setting are usually quite motivational and memorable experiences. Barry Westling
Acie, I think anonymous pretests are fine because the main benefit is for the instructor to learn, in general, what areas the class a whole is strong or weak in coming into the class, and as a planning tool to assist the instructor in tweaking the game plan to best suit the desired outcomes. Also, I don't assign a grade to the tests I give so students feel more comfortable giving their best try, knowing it won't affect their grade. Barry Westling
Darrell, Yes, we want to build confidence. We can do that through encouragement along with advice, support along with suggestions for improvement, and care along with course status information. When students feel their instructor cares, that alone can make a difference in student performance. Barry Westling
Darrell, Course content selection begins with the course objectives. Maintaining a flow is important too, and that takes planning, timing, and trial and error. Having a back up plan if time is left before class ends is part of that. On the other hand, planning a activity where the amount of time can be lengthened or shortened due to time limits can produce classes that seem as though they are perfectly timed. Barry Westling
Darrell, One lesson I've learned is with video's, unless every minute is spot on with absolute necessary information, students will begin to tune out after a few minutes. Even YouTube segments need to be short snippets of time, and very specific to the topic. One way to keep the level of interest higher is using a variety of media in alternating rotation. This keeps information fresh and helps students remain engaged. Barry Westling
Darrell, An organized approach helps assure what is planned has a good chance of being achieved. Students recognize and appreciate the effort their instructor goes to in preparing their instruction. Barry Westling
Amber, Yes, often some students may have only vague ideas about their profession or job area, or what knowledge they have is from information contained in their textbooks. A gust speaker can reinforce what the instructor has emphasized, or put a different spin on an area that's very important by bringing a taste of the real world to them Same with field trips. Even just one, that experience will usually be forever implanted in their memory. Barry Westling
Matthew, Students need direction, and sharing class information is one great way to impart our sentiments for ideas about improvement, as well as offering our support and encouragement. Barry Westling

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