Tremayne Simpson

Anthony, I have also found that this method is effective. It is especially useful to serve as a "recap" list of reviewed topics, in the final minutes of the class. Tremayne Simpson

Lisa, I agree. In addition, students should continuously do personal research in their desired field of study, to better understand their selected career path. Tremayne Simpson

Lisa, This is a great method for assessing your students' comfort level with the subject matter. Do you provide your students with a formal assessment (for prior knowledge)when you begin your class? Tremayne Simpson

Henry, It is also a great idea to add the corresponding learning objective, into each individual, assignment guideline. This will enable the students to see how the assignments are aligned with the overall objectives of the course. Tremayne Simpson

Chris, I agree, you must always use caution when considering student suggestions. In most cases, I have used a "pre-populated" survey tool that enables them to provide input, however in a restrictive context. "Guided input" can be easily managed and possibly implemented. Tremayne Simpson

Carol, In some cases, lesson planning can be slightly different from creating the course syllabus. The course syllabus provides and overview of the course and a topical outline of items that will be covered. Lesson planning occurs daily, within the structure of the class. Therefore, a student could assist in providing input on the lesson plan, as long as it fits within the realm of the topical outline of the syllabus. Tremayne Simpson

Fred, If the student input was provided in a "structured" manner (i.e. survey, online forum, etc.) do you still think that their feedback (regarding lesson plans) would not be productive for the planning of the class? Tremayne Simpson

Carol, This is an excellent suggestion. If time permits, do you allow the students to reflect upon the three main topics that they learned about that day? It is a great tool to assess the students' retention of information and application of topics. Thank you for your post. Tremayne Simpson

Francis, I use a similar approach in my speech class. I try to provide time for short, "audience assessments", in that students are given the opportunity to present a short speech in preparation for a major presentation. I allow the class (audience) to provide a verbal critique and suggested areas of improvement for the student. I find that peer critiquing is a great tool in assisting a student with overcoming speech anxiety, as long as all students have an equal opportunity to provide comments. Tremayne Simpson

Norman, Our courses have a similar student evaluation method, however the forms are separated by "course" and "instructor", with areas for open comments on each. Tremayne Simpson