testing and retention of information
I feel that testing the level of retention is not the only purpose of the test in it self but the reinforcement of the information as well. it should be used as a way of a final review for students. as they build upon their information bank but some students may exibit overload when it comes to testing the fear of not being prepared by the information given creates anxiety for some. the methode of testing may also reflect the students inability to corilate the information because of this.
Hi Peter Thanks for your post to the forum. It is really important to regularly assess whether your students are learning so it is great that you test after each section is completed rather than giving a comprehensive exam alone. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I usually give a curriculum based test at the end of each section,the opportunity to perform a hands-on labs gives the student extra knowledge as they reinforce the course material.
Hi Todd - Welcome to ED 103 Sounds like a great way to make your class/questioning activity interactive! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I play a game that has evolved over time. Questions come from various places. Preset review questions, questions created by the students from their notes or i create them off the cuff. I then assign #s 1 thru last person on the roll sheet in random order and tell the students that i will reassign numbers as needed. This way i can take the heat off of a student that may get picked on from time to time. I pick the first # and if that person answers the ? correctly, they get to chose a #for the next question. If they get it wrong then hands are raised and the correct answer get to choose a #.
I agree - we must always find ways to get our students motivated and involved. That is really the ticket to retention!
Yes, testing and retention should be correlated, but long term retention is where multiple methods such has games to involve student interaction can be very helpful!
Charles
