Exam Review

[poponob]

Does anyone have any tips on how to effectively lead an exam review? I prefer keeping them minimal, but my students practically revolted at the midterm so I promised there would be one for the final. I'm generally against just repeating everything I have already said all semester in condensed form, but I'm not sure how else to go about it.

Comments

One possibility

[elricmelnibone]

Have the students each bring in questions that they feel need to be answered. Then have the class work through the answers as a group. Think of it as a study session, only you are present to help steer them away from errors. But you can make sure that the students are providing the material, so that you are not repeating yourself.

Re: One possibility

[poponob]

This is a good idea, but too late. Maybe next semester.

It also assumes that they are willing to put any work into something that won't contribute directly to their grade.

Re: One possibility

[elricmelnibone]

Why is it too late? Have you already had the review?

I fail to see how their exam does not directly contribute to their grade. And if they can't see that, then they likely won't care for a review to begin with.

Re: One possibility

[poponob]

The review is tomorrow, otherwise I would have asked them to bring in questions earlier.

I meant it's difficult to get them to do any in class work unless it is something they know they will be graded on. They may benefit from putting in the effort of a review session but they don't seem to see it that way.

Re: One possibility

[elricmelnibone]

When you walk into the class, as them what questions they have. If they want review, they have to want to review something. That something will be something they don't understand, which means they should have a question on it. If you ask them what questions they have that need answers and they sit and stare blankly at you, thank them for showing up and then leave. Remind them that you've already presented the material. A review is a chance for them to ask about things they have questions on. You are not psychic, and do not know ahead of time what they don't know.

Remind them that they will be graded on the exam. If they want the review to be useful, they have to bring their questions. I'm sure at some point someone here will suggest that you offer some points on the exam for anyone who brings in - and asks - a question that leads to productive discussion. But I think that's silly.

Re: One possibility

[paperkingdoms]

Then they don't get the review they so desperately crave.

You can borrow my speech: "I don't really feel a need to go over anything in particular at the review. I know this stuff; it all makes lots of sense to me. So if you'd like a review, done entirely for your benefit, you'll have to tell me what we need to talk about."

Then you have to perfect your ability to stare at them until they have questions to ask.