It's important for them to know where they stand so that they know whether or not they need to improve.
Terri,
These are very good reasons. There is a common pitfall (usually with newer instructors) that once information has been presented that students should be able to immediately understand, and in reality, that's rarely the case. Instructors need feedback as much as the students do.
Barry Westling
Edie,
Early feedback on progress made to date can be a lifesaver for some students.
Barry Westling
Students and instructors both need to know if the students are are absorbing and comprehending the concepts being presented. The instructor needs to know if his methods of teaching are effective and the students need to know where they need further improvement.
Don,
I think it very hard to be motivated when hope of success is diminished. Yet, simple encouragement and conveying we care can turn around even the most hopeless situation, especially when discussed early on, and bot student and instructor are committed to do all they can to succeed.
Barry Westling
I like the idea of introducing the syllabus at the beginning of the course with the information that each student should expect a mid-term evaluation on the students' progress.
I think it helps to keep students motivated toward learning the material because no one wants to fail. It also can prompt conversations with students who may need some extra help.
Michelle,
I believe it's essential for the student to trust that their instructor has the students success in mind in every assignment and graded activity. Sharing ideas, giving advice, and offering suggestions convey we care, and also provides an opportunity to encourage our students.
Barry Westling
Steven,
Right. Without feedback, there really can't be effective communication. And discussing grades and performance in person helps establish a bridge of trust, respect, and perhaps commitment - both from the student by understanding their progress, and the instructor who can convey they are there to assist in meeting desired student outcomes.
Barry Westling
It is necessary to keep students informed of their progress and their lack of progress as soon as the next class scheduled time.This allows them to ask appropriate questions or myself to meet with the students as needed.
Roland,
I like discussing status and grades with students, and in person. It gives me a chance to give support and encouragement, as well as advice and suggestions. I feel it puts the instructor and student on the same side of wanting to achieve success.
Barry Westling
Communicating with students about their progress throughout the course is crucial for their learning and development as emerging technicians in their field of study. Feedback lets students know where they stand in the class, especially at the midterm point. By keeping students informed about their progress and letting them know what their strengths are, you provide motivation, encourage good work, and improve their ability to be self-directed. Additionally, you can get ideas on how to better meet the students’ needs.
I think its just morally sound to keep those informed of their performance in a course to serve as a gauge or limit to the standing in a course. Someone may believe they are doing good the entire time and then when its almost time to completion of the course they may fail, so as to prevent such a tragedy its imperative to let everyone know their particular standing.
Miriam,
Great. Students benefit by getting their scores and performance frequently so that time to discuss and make corrections can occur.
Barry Westling
I keep my students current on their status in my class so I always have time to help their learning experience and not wait til it is too late to bring up their average.
Farzana,
Immediate communication is nearly always a good thing. Also, talking with students to provide suggestions, praise, encouragement, and/or support increases the students understanding of their performance.
Barry Westling
I want to know how they are doing after every test and lab sheet accomplished . It's important for students to know specially those who are not doing well,so they should work hard and bring there grade up.
Curran,
Very true. Recognition is a powerful stimulus and motivator. Even lower performing students can be motivated by positive feedback from the instructor that suggests we haven't given up on them.
Barry Westling
higher performing students like knowing not only that they are doing well but that you recognize that they are doing well. students that don't perform as well need to see that you care and are willing to do whatever it takes to help them succeed.
Jason,
Right. Plus, the opportunity for the instructor to intervene, and time for the student to make needed corrections is more likely when the instructor is diligent with distributing grade information promptly.
Barry Westling
