Minute papers
I really liked the concept of this. Has anyone tried it and what were the outcomes.
I have used the minute paper and have been pleased with the results. It provides a focus for the student to write what they have learned. It also shows the instructor if the concepts have been presented clearly.
Hi Ashley,
Try the minute paper! It is such an effective teaching method. Your students really pay attention because they know that the minute paper is coming.
Patricia
The concept of minute papers is new to me. As a former student I know first hand how this would have helped me in class. I always paid attention, but for me, this would serve as a good way of reviewing what stuck with me, and what I needed to review on my own time.
As an instructor, I think it would help the unattentive students know that you mean business and will help the attentive students review their own learning. I would like for the students to turn these in so that I can use them as a review of how well I am doing as an instructor. I love this idea!
I think this could be a great tool. I am looking forward to trying it out. I find your feedback helpful and encouraging that it will be an effective way to get, and hopefully keep, students on track.
Hi Michael,
I give an overall participation grade at the end of the grading period that is worth 5%.
Patricia
Great strategy. I will try this also and expect similar first reactions. I think moving forward students will be apt to pay more attention.Did you attach a participation grade to their papers?
Hi Peggy,
Much can be learned as to what your students are getting or not getting from these minute papers. They are an opener for the instructor as well as the student.
Patricia
I like this idea and will try it asap.
I really like this idea and I am glad that it worked well for you. I definitely plan to use it in future classes. Although I teach programming and most classes are filled with application, I think is a great way to have students show some knowledge of topics as well.
I really like this idea and intend to use it this week! I think the key to this working is to keep it random....I want to make sure this tool keeps them engaged, not just good at predicting my actions. Can't wait to try it.
I am new to teaching in academia and this sounds like a wonderful idea to keep students engaged and to see if they are learning or what they are retaining during your teaching time. It would allow you to make changes if necessary to your lesson plans.
I think that I could incorporate this into a participation or homework grade.
Love this idea.
Hi Debra,
Minute papers keep students alert, especially when you do them randomly. They never know when to expect them so they are always on their toes.
Patricia
Natasha,
I have tried this, and still use it from time to time. I remember the first time it was used. The students seemed disinterested in the class; texting, and reading other course books. At just about the end of class, I asked them all to take out a pencil and paper. You should have seen the looks on their faces! I asked them to write a minute paper on what they learned during the class time. Some of the papers had nothing on them! Others were full. I can say, from that time on, most of the class paid attention. These are great for a suprise, especially when you notice the class is off in dreamland.
I like this idea too. I haven't used it yet, but I think it will work. I also think it will be a good end-of-class summary for all of the students.
