Midterm Assessment

As the class is well under way and we are almost at the half way point in the semester, I wanted to take a few moments to reflect upon the format of the class. As most of us can agree on the first day we were all quite confused, but I find it amazing how far we have gotten and the direction we have moved in. With the exception of Professor Dean's underlying expectations, the class has been entirely in our hands. Considering this is the first time for the course offering, there is even more control on behalf of the students. I have been thinking lately of the self-assessment and assessing of our fellow students. From my experience so far, you literally get out what you put into this class and it is fair to say a good chunk of my classmates are doing that. At this juncture it would be wise for everyone to make their own mid-term assessment of their progress and that of their classmates. This would make it easier to provide a final assessment.

In terms of the actual structure of the class, I feel time has been spent wisely during class. Coming from the perspective of someone who does not speak up often in class, I find it rewarding to listen to the opinions of others. The big discussions and small group discussions have both been beneficial in their own ways. I cannot speak on behalf of everyone, but I learn best in a flexible and changing environment. An environment this is not set in stone and leaves room for adjustment.