Midterm Grade
At the Career College that I work with, midterm grades are a requirement actually before the midterm spot of the course. I think this is a GREAT idea. This is one way for learners to see how they are doing at the present time and what they may need to do to improve.
For me, it offers a chance to reflect on who is doing well, who do I need to encourage more, etc. For all learners, I also add a personal note with the grade. A "great going" for those with a solid A to "it is not too late to improve; you can still earn a good grade" for those with D's and F's.
It is surprising how many learners have no idea where they are in the course!
Hi David,
Good point. The more we can keep our students current with their course status the easier it is to motivate them to continue their efforts or correct the direction they are going if they are not doing well.
Gary
I think that's a great idea and I have also done the same. I was surprised how many students didn't know how they were doing as well...and the mid term grade feedback is always appreciated.
Hi Laura,
Thanks for this information. You are doing a great service for the 25%. Wonder why more don't take advantage of your offer of help.
Gary
Gary,
I tutor about 25% of my students each term. I wish more students would take me up on the offer.
Laura
Hi Laura,
What a great way to show support for your students. Do the majority of students that are in need of assistance take advantage of your offer to tutor them?
Gary
I also like midterm grades as I think it is a way for the students to see how they have performed to date and to know what they need to do in order to pass the class.
After I post the midterm grades, I send an email to my students to let them know where they are in the course. I also try to set up a tutoring session for the students that are not doing well in the course.
Laura
Yes, many students have little idea where they are and a midterm can help. But exams can also be threatening so it is necessary to build trust so poor student will want to continue.
Hi Cheryl,
These mid-term updates sound great. This gives them a snapshot of where they are. You are right that many students have no idea about their course status. They need the update so they can continue their progress or strive for improvement as needed.
Gary
