Use of Novel Course Content on a Pretest
What are your thoughts on the use of novel course content on pretests? I like the idea of giving the students the sneak peek at what's to come, and an opportunity to synthesize what they've learned in previous courses to successfully answer questions they've never been asked before. But this also seems to pose a threat to student confidence.
Do you a have a favorite approach?
Thanks.
Kelly,
I use pretesting in my courses for the reasons you list. I like having this information because it gives me a baseline upon which I can develop my instructional content and delivery. As you say the more you know the more targeted you can be.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I am a firm believer in using pretests to give the students an idea of what we will be covering (it tunes their ears) and it gives me an opportunity to see what they already know, what their writing style is like and what their expectations of the course is. I teach Pathophysiology and it's so helpful to know what their prerequesite level of anatomy and physiology is prior to starting. I tend to give the same test at the end - sometimes as a team challenge for review before the final exam.
Stephen,
The approach I use is somewhat like what you like in terms of novel course content. The first class meeting I put the students into groups of 3-4 and give them a case study that builds on previous courses. The case study is fun and has elements of surprise and mystery built into it. They spend some time discussing the case and then we come together as a class and share. Sometimes I will have them role play to "act" out the various parts of the case. The idea is to learn what they know so I can get a feel for the class, let them get to know each other, have some fun and challenge them on what the don't know but will know upon completion of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
