Of course a successful class session will vary with respect to the objectives for any given class session. However, here are some general things that I am on the lookout for to determine whether a class session is successful:
- Students ask questions about the reading assignment or an aspect of the lecture
- Students indicate that something that was previously unclear is now clearer
- Students begin to make connections between discussions in this class and what they are learning in another class or otherwise with an aspect of their life more generally
- Students begin to respectfully engage one another and respond to each other’s comments during class discussions
- Students show evidence of sustained reflection on issues and questions in the course
- Students indicate some level of excitement and enthusiasm for the course material
- Student comments and questions help me to clarify or develop my own thinking