Using formative evaluation methods
I give the students a quiz every week. The quiz is mainly on the material covered the previous week. I feel that when they are preparing for the quiz that does not include enourmous amount of information, they will study it in more detail. At mid quarter I do give them a more comprehensive test which includes all the material that was covered up to that point. The students say they are better prepared for the comprehensive tests because of the prior quizzes.
Weekly quizzes have produced postive results by forcing the students to continually learn the material throughout the course instead of just prior to the test date. Quizzes provide the student weekly updates on how information is being retain through the use of their present study techniques. If the student is having problems with comprehending the information, the quiz brings this deficiency to the front. An evaluation process between the student and I take place to include assessing the basics of notetaking, reading, and the use of study groups. Changes in the study method is changed and reevaluated after the next quiz. It is too late to make corrections when the tests are given, so an intervention is needed throughout the course. One important intervention technique is the use of the "QUIZ". Hail to the QUIZ :-)
Hi Marie - I think it is always wise to give frequent shorter assessments followed by a more comprehensive test. To wait until mid quarter to see how students are doing is very risky. Best wishes - Susan
