Challenging High Potential Students In Large Classes: A Hurdles Approach

Abstract

A hurdles approach, where qualitatively different expectations are linked to higher grades is suggested as a way of challenging high performing students in large classes with extreme range in ability. Large classes and increasing range in student ability and preparedness as well as diverse student learning styles have made it difficult to design assignments and grading schemes which meet the needs of students in the large class environment. High potential students are particularly underserved in this context. Time considerations are also an issue, as large classes make reading student writing assignments impractical. Most instructors know the value of assignments that challenge students’ critical thinking skills, but many can simply no longer handle the workload and thus resort to no papers, no essay exams, and rely on only the multiple-choice exam. It is suggested that setting up a multiple hurdles approach to grading and assignments in classes can address these problems and issues. Properly worked out, this method can provide the challenge your top students’ need, the feedback that they deserve, satisfy your need to really challenge students, and address the reality of large classes. This paper outlines how to set up such a multiple hurdles system and make it work.