reinforcement
giving students timely feedback on test scores and projects motivates them by keeping up their motivation level and keeping them focused
I agree that immediate feedback is important. I think the reinforcement part of it is to help students become aware of strengths and "challenges/opportunities".
Not all students are motivated by their final grade. Those students need different reinforcement. I've found that personal achievement that is recognized openly and often, can help reinforce the motivating factors that those students who don't care about grade may also need.
The day after the test, the questions that were missed the most, I will write up on the board and discuss the questions with the class. It seems to help out because it doesn't single anyone out but it does give the people that missed the question an understanding what the correct answer is and why.
I find that it helps when they take the next test.
So true. Few if any students enter a class looking to fail. When they are not living up to expectation (or when they are exceeding expectation) it is so important for us to give them the feedback necessary to stay on track.
I agree that keeping students in the loop helps them to stay on track and helps with reinforcement.
Hi James,
This is so important for students. Each one wants to know immediately how he/she is doing. By giving quick feedback they can see how they have been successful and where they need to work harder. This is a great motivator.
Gary
I'll give them feedback as soon as the test is complete. In the shop/lab timing is more critical as these students are "hands on" type students. All feedback, except negative, has almost instant results.
Hi Wallace,
As a result I bet you had higher retention rates of knowledge by your students. This is because the hands on creates a connection between the mind and body that helps with long term memory.
Gary
i did not do this for a long time. i started to give a review of the student preformane in a hands on way that seems to work beeter than verbal.
Hi Kevin,
This is a critical tool for teaching. Timely feedback keeps the students informed of their status in the class so they know where to put their efforts as continue through the course.
Gary
