Relevancy
I think its a great idea to review for the test a day prior, but the more we enable the students by making things easier, the more they take that for granted, and become lazier.
Adriana,
I think your approach is very important because application is essential in relation to what you are teaching. Once they are out in the work place they are going to have to make applications and use critical thinking, so the more opportunities you provide them to develop these skills the better prepared they will be.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have faced this problem many times. Students will focus on memorizing the definitions and key ideas from each chapter. However, they are not able to take their understanding to the next level by applying their knowledge to a new situation.
I teach biochemistry and physiology, and I will often try to branch out and use compare/contrast assignments to see similarities between systems in the body. I will make them think about what they know and make those connections on their own (with a little guidance on my part if needed).
Latoya,
I think this is a great way to review and engage students. This will increase the retention of content and help the students to see application of the material.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree that there are many different ways to review a topic. This can be done through games, worksheets, Q & A , etc. One thing that I do in the classroom is have the students teach as part of a review. I allow them to pick groups and I assign each group a section out of the chapter. They get together, take notes,then come in front of the class and each person in the group has to teach from their assigned section. I will chime in and add key information as each group presents. I feel that this gives them a way to read and hear any information that they may have missed and it places responsibility on the student.
Christopher,
You make a good point about the lack of common sense by many students today. They need to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. This is what is going to make them valuable in the workplace. They need to understand they are not entitled to a grade just because they have paid their tuition. They have to put forth the energy and effort if they are going to be success and not blame everyone else for their lack of success.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I have had students be upset I have not literally gone over an entire test before.
Last I checked, the student has class time, books, and notes (hopefully). You are expected as a student to do your part, learn. You will not be spoon fed everything.
Deal with it. We wonder why people can't think !(and one reason I have said for years I think colleges train the common sense out of people!)
Anna,
There are many different ways of reinforcing what has been taught. Using different review techniques helps the students to recall the material but should not be done in a way that takes ownership of effort from them. They do need to put forth the effort to learn the material because as we know if they don't their careers will be short lived.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
