Expectation survey - Midterm 1

As it should be clear by now, the way the class has operated so far is unlike how typical classes in the department are usually run.  As I've mentioned, the reason I am doing this is to help you learn the material better.  I have personally been very pleased with how the class has been going - there are many more discussions in class than I usually encounter in 400-level classes (especially large ones), and the questions you are asking indicate you have spent time before class to think about the topics being covered.  Scientific literature indicates that these are good signs that correlate with better learning outcomes.

At the same time, I am very much aware of the fact that some of you may not be entirely happy with this different format, and this is commonly observed by the many other teachers who use a 'flipped' or 'active' mode of teaching.  I am asking you to do a lot more work than you would normally do in a class, at least on a regular basis, and the benefits may not be immediately obvious to you.  Also, a very valid criticism is that ultimately it is your responsibility to learn and you should be allowed to do it at your own pace rather than being pushed by me with constant deadlines and quizzes.  

All of this being said, I would like to get the pulse of the class after you've had about 3 weeks of experience with this new format.  I have set up a survey for you to fill out here:  https://umdsurvey.umd.edu/SE/?SID=SV_3rqKkkUFtCmNY21 Links to an external site.  The role of this survey is for me to better understand how the format of the class is impacting you in terms of workload and your perceptions about the class. I also want to hear your concerns and suggestions in order to adjust, if necessary, how the class proceeds for the rest of the semester. 

Links to an external site. Links to an external site. Links to an external site.

The survey is anonymous, so please be honest with your responses.  When you are done filling out the survey, please enter "done" in the text box below.