I use Classroom assessment techniques (CATs)in order to give feedback to the students, as well as myself. I like the minute paper technique when teaching conceptual subjects, such as the Inverse Square Law, or Coulomb's Law. When asked if they have any questions, students usually say they understand the topic completely. But, by using a minute paper, students have to write down and present to the instructor their level of understanding of the topic. This always brings out the questions, and exposes the students who do not really have a great grasp of the subject matter.
I also really like the Punctuated Lecture technique, to assess student comprehension on various topics. These are important sources of feedback for both students and the instructors as to how effective the instructional process has been, and what adjustments may need to be made.
Hi Ron, I also really value CATs. They let me know when I am on track and when I am not, when looking at the class as a whole, but also gives me feedback on individual students who may be struggling. Have a great holiday!
Susan
Susan Polick
Hi Sheryl, That's a good idea! If students know that they will be asked to react to the video they will be more likely to pay attention. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
I continually ask questions. I believe it keeps the students tuned-in to the information and allows them to constantly reflect on what they are are learning.
My classes are also, mostly assessment. As a technical schhol, more time and effort are spent in the hands-on aspect of our program.
I have had the opportunity to use CATs techniques in my class. the teachnique that I use is the minute paper. Students are asked to write down what they learned from the previouse lecture or even sometime I would do it after a lecture. with the information collected, I am able to have an understanding if students are grasping concepts in which is being taught.
One way I like to use the CATs is after a video I show in which an author they are studying in Am. Lit. gives an interview. I don't want to give a real grade over the video, but I want to encourage students to gain something from it, so they write a minute paper on the most valuable thing they learned.
Hi Diana, I am glad that you found the Module useful! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
Hi Linda, Thanks for your post to the forum. Do you mean that you don't answer any questions as your class is in session? Susan
Susan Polick
Using CAT, you can catch any misinformation, and correct it.
I like the idea of the mini paper and will include it in my classroom.
Hi Bradley, I know that you will find using CATs a great tool! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
I teach in 4 hour blocks with 10 minute breaks. I tell my students if they have questions during the class or after, they can write them down and place in the "Ask It Basket" and I will address the question and elicit discussion from the group I will use some of the other techniques suggested in this session also.
I never heard about CATs, but can't wait to try it. Thanks
Hi Donald, Thanks for your post to the forum. I am assuming that you are using video clips in your classes. I use them as well, and also find them very useful and my students can really relate to them. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
Hi James, Thanks for your post to the forum. You summarized some important reasons to use CATs at the end of lessons. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
Quick real-life examples in a virtual format that pertain to the subject are motivational, fun for the students and quickly show the teacher how comfortable or not the students are with their new knowledge. They want to solve these problems and I never met a student that didn't want to participate. They show me more than a written test and are much quicker with results.
I really like the idea of spending a few minutes at the end of class for reflection. Students realize either they were not really paying any attention or helps solidify concepts before rushing out of class. Implementation will work similar as a pop quiz. Part of the feedback will be self learned/reflection by design. Other ways will be to summarize and/or generalize input from students.
Hi Lorelle,Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes, when students are able to apply the concepts they are learning to real experiences they really "get it"! Best wishes for continued success in your teachng career.
Susan Polick
Hi Christopher, Thanks for your post to the forum and a great summary of the effectiveness of CATs. Best wishes for continued success in your teachng career.
Susan Polick
