Why is it important to evaluate the process of learning in addition to the learning outcomes?
The outcome must be realized before the process begins. If lesson plans are structured on the outcome then learning takes place as a true and false question, leaving the student to memorize elements of the outcome. The building blocks for learning are the development of the learning process; whereby students can learn the elements within how, what and why. This dynamic form of learning engages the student in an exchange of information with her/his fellow classmates. This exchange in information becomes the application of knowledge that is shared among others. As new knowledge develops, other students translate current knowledge to new applications. This exchange and application to new events becomes a third set of knowledge, whereas the new application of information creates a knowledge based environment. The classroom becomes a nest for educational growth.
Can you expand on this a little, Faysha? You are raising some interesting points....
In the courses I instruct I need to know that the students have grasped the process so more complex processes can evolve toward the desired learning outcome so evaluation is extremly important
Mastering the process of learning is a more "applicable" skill, in some cases, that just meeting specified learning outcomes. The learning process with it's emphasis on critial thinking and application of contepts can be applied to more areas than just a student discipline; making them a more learned individual.
Roger, how involved do you see students in the design of their own learning path?
Learning outcomes for a course generally involve complex knowledge and/or tasks. The process of learning involves many steps, and since we are talking about blended learning, several methods of delivery. If we simply give the learner a bucket of resources: e-learning programs, lectures, lab work, text books, and wish them good luck, the outcome will probably not be satisfactory. The instructor should design the path or process to reach the learning outcomes. Evaluation at the many steps of the process will enhance learning insure that the process leads to the desired learning outcomes.
However, is there another way to find out that there is no confusion, Don? Problem solving is a great approach for this...
No, not really, I can only hope that they clear their mind on each possible answer so that they make the right choice and not be confused on the final outcome.
Thanks for the clarification, Don. Are you able to set some critcal problems that would require the students to not just choose and answer but to create a solution in response...?
First it helps me in understanding that the student doesn't know how to take test. For the student he/she gains a better method for taking tests and having improved grades.
All our tests are multiple choice with A - B -
C (which is always both answers A and B) and D (which is neither A or B)
Sometimes when a student reads and agrees with B they forgot about their answer for A. Many times A was also true, but because the forgot they marked B when they should mark C (both). Indicating on the test sheet next to A and B a T or F helps with marking the correct answer therby improving their grade.
I'm not really sure the method you are referring to here, Don. How does this method check for understanding?
This time, first help evaluate a students strengths and weakness. Many times we find that math or reading is an issue, but other times its as simple as tests taking skills. Many of our tests are "Tech A" - "Tech B" with answers being A or B or Both or Neither in the questions. Teaching a simple skill of indicating a true or false answer next to "A" and then reading "B" and then indicating T or F next to that answer allows a student to then properly pick the right answer. I have seen many improvements in grades immediately after showing this method.
Don, how can some of that one-on-one time be used as an evaluative exercise so that more specific measurement of learning can take place?
This is difficult to do especially when many classes have 30 students. Any time spend before or after class with a one on one learning can increase the learning process even if the time is short 15-20 minutes. Many times this is all that is needed.
Good point, Ken, so we need to make sure we award points for the most important aspects of the course :)
Students always like to be rewarded for their acheivements no matter how trivial. By rewarding them with a grade for any effort, they will keep trying to improve and do more research
The lesson mentioned scaffolding for memory retention. So, the way I see it is kind of like metacognitive learning.
Could you elaborate some on that, Larry?
I beleive this is the adhesive tht holds the information in long term memory longer as well as it develops confidence in the student.
Of course grades must be applied, Wayne, however, if the value of the grade rests on the learning process rather than simple tasks, that is much more effective for the student.
