A Discussion on Academic Rigor in the

MGSM Classroom6th Annual Methods Conference

Panel: Dr. Linda Mast and Dr. Edward Jones

Facilitator: Genevieve LucasOctober 9, 2009

Conducted survey of Graduate Faculty◦ Anyone who taught a Morris graduate course in

the 08/09 academic year.◦ 83 surveys distributed, 17 returned, representing

20% response rate. Survey is being used as a starting point for

dialogue about ‘Academic Rigor at RMU’.

Background

Share and discuss the survey results Panel will open with their thoughts Discussion will then move to you

Today’s Discussion

Survey Question Responses

Demonstration of critical, analytical, and creative thinking

High expectations Volume of work Significant learning Challenging work

Define Rigor

“Going beyond …”

Set Expectations

Expect Student Accountability

Challenge, Push, Facilitate

Utilize Specific Assignments

Maintain StandardsSet

Maintaining Rigor in RMU Graduate Courses

Quantity of Assignments

Type and Quality of

Assignments

Thinking

Discussing

Writing

Reading

Realizing Rigor

Expect students to …◦ have focused critical discussion about course

content◦ draw well informed conclusions◦ use what they learn◦ be critical and reflective

Faculty Expectations (CT, Comprehension, Synthesis, and Analysis)

Self-Learning versus Group Learning◦ Opposites?◦ Different way of Self-Learning

Self-Learning has parameters and limits Basic

Ideas and concepts Unlimited

Life-long learning, continual learning

Self-Learning at the Graduate Level

No Transfer

Transfer

Instructional Approaches to Facilitate Knowledge Transfer

•Focus is on course content•Not sure of course connection across graduate curriculum

•Application beyond the classroom•Managerial thinking

•Discussion•Reflection•Asking the students•Guest Lectures

•Application to real world problem•Level of analysis•Timelines•Quality of work•Creative•Relevant content

Evaluation Criteria

•One on One with Faculty•Peer Assessment•Written Assignments•Test and Quizzes

Individual •Evidence of Collaboration (e.g., presentation/paper)

•Peer Assessment•Discussion Forums

Group

Assessing Individual and Group Work

What should future discussions on rigor include in addition to best practices?

When should these discussions occur e.g. quarterly?

How should future discussions be conducted, workshops, webinars, etc?

Future Discussions…