I have been having a similar reaction to my RATs: critiquing my test
questions. I do find some of their concerns legitimate and appreciate
sincere efforts to suggest appropriate revisions, but I sometimes feel what
they really want are easy questions. In terms of discussion, I have a much
smaller class, but sometimes the same thing happens. I know I need to do
more simultaneous reporting of responses (Who agrees or disagrees? Choose
the best example from 1, 2, or 3) so that they can see that there are
different ways of looking at an application and are then inspired to debate
the issue as a whole class rather than hiding behind an erroneous assumption
of agreement. It would require having index cards with choices handed out to
all and a call for simultaneous reporting, much easier in a smaller class. I
have used it to discuss ethical issues (is this scenario ethical or
unethical?) and had good results.

  _____

From: Team Learning Discussion List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of Fox, Alice
Sent: Wednesday, October 05, 2005 12:35 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: translating conversations to the larger group



I have just begun to use team-based learning in a class of 41 Physician
Assistant students; the current course is on communication in the medical
encounter and I have found the team approach very enlivening. However, what
I have noticed is that the team discussions are very intense and lively and
then when we come back together as a group, the conversation halts.
Reviewing the questions poorly understood on the R.A.T. has taken a kind of
semantic turn, as well (pointing to some of my limitations as a test
question designer), rather than what seem to be the more substantive issues.

I am wondering if others have some techniques of transitioning, or making
use of the energy of the teams to share some of the insights with the entire
class. Or does it matter? I had the experience of spending time with a team,
engaged in a great conversation and then when I suggested the topic be
shared later on, the interest in discussing it seemed gone.

Thanks,

Alice



Alice B. Fox, DrPH, PA-C

Mercy College

Graduate Program in Physician Assistant Studies

1200 Waters Place

Bronx, N.Y. 10461

(914)674-7658

email: [log in to unmask]

fax: (718)678-8605