> The dehumanization of the student and his/her relationship to education is
> one reason that I refuse (and will always refuse) to use Scantrons for
> tests.
> It has gotten to the point where I perceive that students sit in Skinner
> boxes like so many rats waiting for the shock (the Scantron test). Some
> run around frantically trying to prepare (studying) but others just sit
> and wait.
> At any rate, the motivation is limited and questionable. Scantrons
> minimize
> the writing component (which I feel is essential at the college level).
> Giving the student a test paper to write on, and explain answers, allows
> me to see to what extent the student has grasped the concept - not just
> memorized the answer. And also to see if perhaps I was not as clear as
> possible in how I ask the question.
>
> I know that these comments probably only marginally related to the
> article, but I have been looking for an excuse....
>
> drnanjo
> (Nancy Melucci)
> ELAC
For once we agree on something :)
I have always written my own tests, and graded them as well. My exams
are generally a combination of multiple choice and essays. In the multiple
choice section students are allowed to write comments on the rationale for
their answers, and I reserve the right to give some credit for an incorrect
answer that has sound logic, understanding.
While some of my colleagues consider this a waste of time, I like grading my
students' exams. I know I could save myself a lot of time by making multiple-
choice only, scantron exams, but I think that's laziness.
I want to understand my students' thought processes as much as I can, and
that in I feel like it shows them that I want to have a more personal
connection with them. And that includes the evaluation process.
************************************************************************
Jim Guinee, Ph.D.
Director of Training & Adjunct Professor
President, Arkansas College Counselor Association
University of Central Arkansas Counseling Center
313 Bernard Hall Conway, AR 72035 USA
(501) 450-3138 (office) (501) 450-3248 (fax)
"FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION!
It comes bundled with the software."
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