This is an important part of including students in the class. It can also provide the instructor clues as to how you may guide the class to meet their needs. It also helps students to feel included in the class. The input shows them that they matter.
Earnest J. Kendall,MSN, RN-BC
I like to keep a pulse on the students and their learning by engaging them in discussions about the previous lesson. This allows me to assess the effectiveness of the lesson content delivery. Sometimes I need to backup and re-assess my delivery strategies. This means that sometimes I move forward and other times I back up. Most of the time my analysis leads me to 'tweak' my lesson for the day somewhere between where I was and where the students seem to want to go. This is quite effective and works for me.
I agree with you, Cindy. Sometimes students share some great feedback that can be incorporated into future classes/lessons. I think it is great to ask for their input.
I agree wsith asking for student input. There are tiems it can really enhance the lesson. I always make sure to tell my students that I did incorporate their suggestions.
Brian,
This is a unique method for gathering student input. Setting-up the class in a "round table" format creates a "safe" environment for the students. I am sure that they are more candid with their responses in this format.
Tremayne Simpson
we utilize an end of class survey but I usually have a final class round table of things they liked, things they didn't like and overall appeal of the class. i take notes during this time and then compile that with my end of class surveys to discover consistencied and make appropriate changes to the lesson plan.
We have student surveys at the end of the course which help. I prefer to ask my students for feedback on things that may be improved upon.
Clifton,
Student input is a viable tool for an effective learning environment. I find that embedding, well-placed questions within a lecture, can produce excellent student participation and input.
Tremayne Simpson
Sameena,
I have taken a similar approach with my students. By using the "team concept" (in regards to learning0, students are able to feel that they hold an important role in their education. In this concept, the instructors are usually perceived as "approachable" (by students), because they do not conduct the classroom like a "dictatorship".
Tremayne Simpson
I believe that student input should always be solicited and can be such assistance as the lesson plans are revised. I think it can be such a springboard to learning let's the student know that valuable ideas are heard and action delivered. It is winner
Since I teach adult students, I like them to take pride in construction of their future careers by taking ownership. I tell students on first day that I learn from my students also. I make it very clear to students that I'll take all workable suggestions into consideration but final decision will be mine as their leader and a coach.
Since I am teaching adult students, I like them to take pride in ownership while constructing their careers. I tell my students on day one that learning is a two way street. I learn from my students too and I am open to any suggestions they can provide me with but I will make a final decision as a leader or coach of their team. I take all workable suggestions into consideration.
Billy,
The taxonomy of learning "the organization or categorization of statements of expected or intended student learning" (MaxKnowledge). There is a summary of the concept in the "Learning Objectives and Standards" portion of the course. It is a good idea to compare and contrast with Bloom's taxonomy.
Tremayne Simpson
What is the learning taxonomy concept?
I think you are absolutely right, Cindy. It is important to ask the students for feedback. I get some great ideas from my students.
Chris,
Do you ever find that your role as the sole educator is a very heavy responsibility? Does this promote student responsibility for learning?
I really don't like the "sage on stage" role model for educators and try to avoid it.
I do allow for student input being that I have a small class designed to help students prepare for their certification exams. I guess you would say I regulate by making sure that they are showing competency and all of my goals for the class are being accomplished along with theirs.
Kanidrus ,
I agree. Students should never feel that they cannot be "candid" and appropriately express their concerns with their instructor. An "intimidating" learning environment can only make the student feel disconnected with the course and instructor.
Tremayne Simpson
Tremayne,
I always ask my student if there are any concerns. if so, we address them accordingly. I feel it is important for students to provide inout for instructors should make the learning environment as comfortable as possible.
Kanidrus Prather
We offer course evaluations and have meeting between semesters to go over the ideas.
