beginning presentation

How different the two classes are. The same in one way - good sense of humor and, in general, good people. But one class works hard, finds itself engaged by the content and the learning challenges, while the other wastes time, and needs excessive handholding. It's scary how this comes about and how little control I really have about it. I can no more credit myself for the successful ones than criticize myself for the failing ones. I can only do my best, which for a significant number, is not enough.

Seinfeld

I am pleased with the challenge that Seinfeld has created for these classes. I have used this assignment at other points of a semester, but in this instance at least, it works well to break us off the quiz routine fairly early and go into some deeper types of thinking. It also reveals a number of comprehension and output issues that have been brewing and need to be addressed for many of these students to go forward. I know they are not so happy with these discomforts, but I hope they can recognize the value of our efforts.

week 6

things feel a bit scattered these days. Some students have dropped out. The quizzes are taking their toll. We have the Seinfeld test coming up and few look prepared. So much hand holding is necessary. But that's the game here. And it will only get worse as the 91 gets phased out and there are more transitions of 101 sections. I need to get better at it.