Overview
As the semester draws to a close and final exams approach, it's crucial to reflect on the key takeaways you want your students to have from your class. Research indicates that students are more likely to retain information presented towards the end of the semester. This period isn't merely about cramming for exams; it's about leveraging a powerful window of opportunity. Those final lectures and review sessions have the potential to solidify understanding and ignite a spark for real-world application.
So, how do we make these final moments count? How do we ensure our students walk away not just with a grade, but with a genuine appreciation for the knowledge they have gained?
- Address the practicalities: Remind students about remaining due-dates, exam-related housekeeping and all the student success resources available. Clarity is key in reducing stress and allowing students to focus on the material.
- Transform the final review session into an engaging experience: Host a final exam study session with a quick overview of the key concepts to remind them how much they have learned during the semester. Encourage students to lead this session through group discussion. Try presenting this in a fun format such as a puzzle, game, or video. Consider using iClickers for a quiz game show approach. These methods can reinvigorate the material and remind students of the progress they have made. Show them how much they have actually absorbed.
- Connect the dots to their future: This is where the true impact lies. Explain how the skills and concepts they have learned will be applicable in future courses, in their job search, and in their lives. Paint a vivid picture of the real-world relevance of their education. Consider using Padlet for an in-class activity allowing students to make these connections. This helps students to see the value in what they have learned and to take ownership of their knowledge.
- Ask for feedback: Revisit the course outcomes and ask your students how well they believe the course met them. Invite their honest opinions on how you can improve the course. This not only provides invaluable insights but also demonstrates your commitment to their learning and your willingness to grow as an educator.
- Express gratitude and celebrate: Thank your students for being a part of your learning community. Find a way to make the last session a memorable one. This could be a simple gesture, like a small treat, or a more elaborate activity that celebrates their achievements. A positive, celebratory ending leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the value of their hard work.
And after the students have left, take a moment for yourself. While the semester is fresh in your mind, jot down notes about what worked and what didn't. This reflective practice is crucial for continuous improvement. Each semester brings new students, which allows for new updates and approaches to class content. These notes will be your invaluable guide when planning next semester, allowing you to refine your approach and enhance the learning experience for future students.
As educators, we have the privilege of shaping minds and influencing futures. By seizing the opportunities presented in those final moments, we can ensure that our students leave our classrooms not just with a grade and college credit but with a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Let's make the final flourish count.
Resources
For more, review these additional resources:
Support
For support, email [email protected] call 210-458-4520 or book a consultation with our TLDT experts.