Barry Westling

Fredrik, Some areas in a course are less important than others. But if students are weak, then more attention will have to be given. Pretesting is one way to accomplish that. Barry Westling

Fredrik, Right. We want employed individuals as the result of our efforts. Other important traits we can provide if possible are good communication and writing, critical thinking, and professionalism. Barry Westling

Fredrik, And that feeling of confidence goes a long ways towards trust, respect and credibility by students towards their instructor. No guarantees, but without preparation, outcomes and credibility are sure to be diminished. Barry Westling

Jessica, Yes, if a test can be aslo used as an instructional tool, it's probably a sound idea to use it that way. Barry Westling

Arnitra, You know, I believe if giving away some points for relatively little work, and that creates momentum to lead to a successful, productive working professional, then my perspective is what the heck. It's just in my profession (like most), there are just some topics that have to be mastered, and it becomes not a question of points and grades, but about to what degree has a student learned essential material. Barry Westling

Jessica, This is a great idea. Sometimes, off task is a momentary thing, and students just need a bit of urging to get them back on track. In these instances, I begin to circulate around the room, stand next to distracted students, ask specific students specific questions, or perhaps have them write key words on the board as I'm discussing a topic. I suppose there are dozens of variations of the same ideas. Barry Westling

Arnitra, Great. When students are in motion, that will nearly always bring them together and back on task. Barry Westling

Arnitra, Good example. If allowed (by policy and patient permission), also palpating the area being auscultated gives yet another dynamic to this activity. It's true, more senses involved results in better retention of information and application in the job setting. Barry Westling

Jessica, Yes, at a minimum. I also think good writing and communication is important, as is critical thinking, and professionalism and courtesy. With these and the KSA's you describe, students should be adequately prepared. Barry Westling

Jean, It's interesting, as educators, we really never know what is going to trigger something in a student that catches their interest, and may contribute to a whole career emphasis or interest. That's why I believe strongly in the exercise of trying to expand the experiences students receive. The results can be amazing. Barry Westling