Since the pretest is not graded wouldn't it be better called a survey. I usually do a survey of my incoming class to assess if they know the basics of the course.
Nicole,
Yes, offering a simple assessment before a class begins can help identify whole areas the class may need extra attention, while also areas that may not as much emphasis. It doesn't have to be comprehensive, but just enough to assist the instructor with planning.
Barry Westling
I have never used pretests before, but I am reconsidering that now! I have had a class where they are learning an extremely technical computer program on a mac, and many of them come in not understanding how to use a mac much less an advanced program on it. I think if I were to implement a pretest pertaining to computer knowledge, I could be able to gauge how much I need to go over about using computers and macs before I even begin talking about the program.
I think pretesting would help in many other classes of mine as well since I teach in a program that does not necessarily follow much of an order when it comes to which classes the students take. They come to me with many different skill sets, and I am always having to ask, "Have you learned this yet?" This would definitely help me cut that part out and better prepare.
Amanda,
I know what material and to what depth I want to cover in my classes. A pretest can help me determine if I need to review some beforehand, so that by the course end, the essential material will have been covered (and hopefully, additional "nice to know" material as well).
Barry Westling
Jennifer,
Starting point - that's a great way to summarize one benefit that pretesting provides. It helps give a realistic place to begin, based on actual student performance.
Barry Westling
I like using pretests to gage how much information I will have to cover. For example, when it comes to anatomy and physiology some people have a better understanding than others do, so I have to see where they all stand and from their I can choose my beginning and end point for the lecture so as to not overwhelm those that don't have a strong base of knowledge and to make sure others are learning something new.
I use these especially in courses that have pre-reqs and I didn't teach the course before. That way I know what the students understand from the previous instructor. It gives me a starting point. I've had to re-write course plans completely because the students were not ready to move on, we had to review information from the previous course.
ROBERT,
Right, and I'm sure you find your students are appreciative of both the information you provide, and recognition of the time and effort their instructor has given to assist students. Better testing outcomes, and respect for their instructor are likely.
Barry Westling
I use pretest as a way to gauge the classes starting point and also studies point out that the best way to prepare for a test is with a pre-test.
michael,
Of course, I don't grade pretests, and I find that when students know they won't be graded, that removes a lot of the anxiety a student may experience. Also, how the rationale for the activity is presented can contribute to better student acceptance.
Barry Westling
michael,
Open book search is a variation of the pretest, but can certainly prepare students for what's coming up in class.
Barry Westling
I think pretesting can also cause some anxiety because students may feel that they should already kniow the material and are being judged. As we know, there are many different learning styles and some students will react differently. I can it an activity....
I use pre tests or activities that require a open book search for information in order to activate learning. It wakes students up the information that will be presented to them and because they are already aware, they actually participate.
Aretha,
Knowledge regarding prior knowledge is tremendously valuable when time, resources, and/or schedules are scarce or limited. Really, when is that not the case.
Barry Westling
Pretest can give the instructor a baseline to go by where the student is concerned. The pretest can help the instructor structure the material for maximum benefit for the student.
Aretha
Sonia,
Perfect! If done regularly I'm sure you find your students benefiting from the "preview of coming attractions".
Barry Westling
Pretest are a great tool the day after a lecture because it gets the student into learning mode. With pretests. I am able to determine what topics I need to review again with my students.
tara,
True, most classes have students with varying degrees of prior learning. A short, simple assessment of prior learning can often provide insight into what areas may need to be reviewed, and perhaps what areas less time can be emphasized.
Barry Westling
It gives the instructor a starting point. Not all students are at same level just because they have, theoretically, finished high school.
Barbara,
Most classes have a variety of student learning experiences. Prior knowledge can only assist instructors sharpen their focus on where the strengths and needs that their students possess. Pretesting can help learn something about prior knowledge.
Barry Westling
