In my unit, students prepare set readings for tutorials by keeping a ‘preparation journal’. The journal forms a log of student engagement with material and helps inform responses to other pieces of assessment including a major essay. Previously, students were required to ‘do the reading & be prepared to discuss’ with minor marks awarded for participation. With this innovation, student engagement with set readings has dramatically increased and ensures students have done the reading and ready to discuss them in class. Early scaffolding for academic writing has benefitted students as well as offering them opportunities to pursue individual interests.
Teaching@Sydney