I employ both objective and subjective methods of evaluating student's performance by using points system within categories. While my department's grading policy is set for major tests, I break down some categories into sub-categories in order to emphasize on specific skills that I need to evaluate.
We have a standard at our school that we have to use. Our classes are fast, and grades are posted in the mid term and the final. With quiz, exams, and final exam grades making up the whole.
I prefer to use ways that demostrates a students abilities through demonstration. for example I would have the students learn to draw various electrical diagrams from lists of components. As a test I would randomly select a component list and have them draw the diagram and then wire the components on a working simulator and verify correct operation. They should be able to accomplish this in thirty minutes for 25 points.
The degree course I am teaching now does not have any physical demonstration capability. The emphasis in their ability to learn through lecture, discussion, study, research and evaluate through written testing and writing of papers on the subject matter. This type of evaluation should demonstrate their writing, math, english and analytical abilities.
For most of my courses the methods are practical. Evaluation of how the student has comprehended the exercise and how well they perform said exercise. Points of strengths are pointed out first and then broken down in to what needs more practice. For my other classes, the evaluation is based off of how well the students comprehend the subject and how the re-use this data in subsequent lessions.
I incorporate pop quizzes, presentations and demonstrations on covered material. I have found this to be very effective in evaluating my students.
Hi Teri:
The advantage of evaluating and then reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall.
Regards, Barry
Hi Scott:
The advantage of evaluating and then reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall.
Regards, Barry
Hi Joseph:
The advantage of evaluating and then reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall.
Regards, Barry
Hi Shlomo:
One of the best methods for testing systems is to develop a rubric that is presented to the students the first day of class (or as soon as possible) so the student knows the expectations.
Regards, Barry
Hi Cheryl:
No matter what style of evaluation used, it is important to be sure the student understands the expectations, and the impact to their grade.
That said, it is completely the call of the instructor as to the value of an open book exam as compared to more traditional examination for determining how well a student has retained the information.
Regards, Barry
Hi Guy:
No matter what method is used, one of the best methods for grading systems is to develop a rubric that is presented to the students the first day of class (or as soon as possible) so the student knows the expectations.
Regards, Barry
It depends upon the course I am teaching. I feel more limited when teaching, for example, Algebra than when teaching Anatomy. I try my best to include as much diversity as possible no matter what I am teaching, but the subject matter offers restrictions.
Hi Tim:
In addition, it is important to review exam material when time allows.
The advantage of reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall.
Regards, Barry
Hi Chris:
One advantage of reviewing a test with the group is that it might allow a student to gain a better understanding of the rationale they need to answer similar questions that will occur on future exams. Also, it might trigger new questions about the subject matter that will help to stimulate a better understanding of the concepts overall.
Regards, Barry
We have flexibility ergarding the categories of grading. In my case, for MBA students, individual assignments account for 70-75% of their total score and team projects account for 20-25%.
The individual assignments consist of assignments dua each class and a common assignment that is done at all campuses for both on-ground and on-line students. I also include 10% for participation/professionalism.
The team project consists of three to five students who analyze a case study on an organization of their choice, using the concepts covered throughout the course, and present their conclusions and recommendations for this organization at the end of the course.
Hi Becky:
I can see both advantages and disadvantages with this approach. Since you are limited in such a way, are you able to assess if a student is doing more than just memorizing facts to pass the tests?
Regards, Barry
I have the students complete a hands on lab that requires them to complete work that they have completed all course. This is worth 30% of their lab grade.
This is a fantastic idea! I will try that next class period! The only way I evaluate right now is through exams, but I try to vary the types of questions (i.e. multiple choice, matching, and short answer).
I select evaluation methods that are fair and equal to all students. I give extra credit on every test to allow each student to increase grade.
I do allow each student student to perform extra credit projects to improve overall grade. If students do not elect to perform extra credit, it does not affect their overall grade.
The electronic grading system used by my college does allow for students grades to be equal based on the extra credit work performed.
When I did on site instruction, I found that assigning points to categories, i.e. group work, tests, etc. worked well. I allowed make-up work on a case by case situation. I feel adult students require some flexibility due to work, health, family, and job situations.
