Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/responding-revising-assessing-student-writings
As educators, we all strive to help our students grow and improve, and a significant part of that journey lies in how we interact with their written work. The Coursera course, ‘Responding, Revising and Assessing Student Writings,’ offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration into this crucial aspect of teaching. This course is a game-changer for anyone looking to refine their feedback strategies and foster genuine improvement in student writing.
The course is structured into four key modules, each delving into a vital area. The first module, ‘Responding to Student Writing,’ immediately challenges the common perception of ‘grading’ papers. Instead, it emphasizes the power of ‘responding’ to foster learning and growth. It provides practical strategies to ensure students actually read and utilize feedback, moving beyond just glancing at the grade. The discussion on different response methods, including conferences and peer review, is particularly valuable, offering actionable techniques for effective communication.
‘Teaching Revision’ tackles the often-misunderstood concept of revision, clearly differentiating it from mere editing. The course equips learners with effective strategies to teach students the art of revision, encouraging them to actively engage in the process of improving their work. The hands-on approach to practicing various revision techniques is a highlight, promoting a deeper understanding of how to cultivate this skill in students.
The third module, ‘Evaluating, Assessing and Grading Student Writing,’ addresses the often-dreaded task of grading. The instructor candidly shares their own feelings about grading, creating a relatable experience for many educators. This section offers a thorough examination of rubrics, the connection between learning objectives and assessments, and the pros and cons of portfolio assessment. It encourages a thoughtful reflection on personal grading philosophies, aiming to establish fair and workable systems.
Finally, ‘Involving Students in Responding, Grading and Assessment’ empowers educators to shift from teacher-centric to student-inclusive practices. It explores how students can actively participate in peer review and even assessment processes. The emphasis on self-reflection as a tool for learning is particularly impactful, encouraging students to identify their own areas for growth. The course culminates in a plan for bringing these learned aspects into one’s own classroom, making the learning immediately applicable.
Overall, ‘Responding, Revising and Assessing Student Writings’ is an exceptional course. It’s practical, insightful, and highly relevant for any educator, from novice teachers to seasoned professionals. It provides the tools and perspectives needed to transform how you approach student writing, fostering a more effective and engaging learning environment. I highly recommend this course to anyone serious about improving their students’ writing and their own teaching practice.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/responding-revising-assessing-student-writings