Strategies and Techniques
John Eggler

Control and Responsibility

1. Classroom Assessment Techniques
One method of finding out a number of things from students is to use CATS. These are methods of taking the class "temperature" by distributing 3 x 5 cards and asking students what they are doing to be more responsible. These can be discussed in the next class session.

Reason for Use
Students do not normally convey concerns to an instructor after a class session. Very few students come to our offices to ask about lecture material, to alert us to a personal problem, or to share some other form of information. The use of the CATS cards allows students to express these concerns .

Observations
Since I have used these cards for some time, I am not surprised to find that I learn a lot about students though this method. I can invite students to my office and help them connect with a campus service or point out steps they can take to handle a problem.


2. Student Record Keeping Sheet
This technique borrowed from Ray Launier starts with each student getting a record sheet which has a list of the points possible in each class for all the assignments. A second column allows the students to record their points for each assignment. The student is thus very conscious of how she/he is doing.

Reason for Use
I was impressed with Ray's use of the record keeping sheet . I decided to investigate how it would work for my students.

Observations
I was very pleased with the use of the points earned/assignment sheet. I saw many students immediately record their scores when I returned their assignments. Those who came to my office to discuss their grades came with their record keeping sheet.