Using assignments to teach tough topics

In two Web classes I have some assignments that students struggle with each semester. To prolong the learning experience of the assignment I use email or group discussion topics to provide feedback over several days or even weeks.

Traditionally a teacher gives out an assignment and materials, the student does it and turns it in. Then the teacher grades it and provides comments and then all move on. This ends what could be a valuable learning experience for the student.

I have learning modules that explain the assignments in detail and references to help the students out. But today's students like the just in time concept. They want information on something specific and only that. And on their time schedule.

So what I do is invite the students to email me their work. I tell students to get their work to me at least 48 hours before the due date to be sure of getting help. As the due date looms it becomes difficult to respond to everyone.

In the emails, I note errors and send it back and then they work on it again. This happens for some assignments many many times.

I try to keep my replies short and don't try to cover every error I see. I provide short emails pointing out something that is wrong and give some direction on how to fix it.

This process is time intensive and gets frantic as the deadline approaches and more students decide to get started.

But if you are willing to spend the time, there is no surer way of getting the students to understand the material than through this email exchange.

In one class I have groups and many group projects. Here I do the same thing, but limit all communications to the group discussion topics. Email is forbidden for group projects. If a student sends an email to ask about the group assignment I answer it in their group topic. This way all communication is public.

This works for many students, but there are some students who roll in on an assignment at the last minute.

I can't be just in time for them.

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