In our previous blog post titled "Enhancing Team-Based Learning with Very Short Answers", we delved into the benefits of incorporating Very Short Answer Questions (VSAs) in Team-based Learning. VSAs have been shown to foster deeper engagement, critical thinking, and collaborative skills among students, enhancing the overall learning experience (Lau, Rajalingam, & Yang, 2022).
Incorporating VSAs into TBL offers numerous benefits, but it is essential to be aware of potential challenges that educators may encounter during implementation. In this blog, we will delve into effective solutions to overcome these obstacles.
Potential Challenges and Solutions in Implementing VSAs
Here are several potential challenges in implementing VSAs along with suggested solutions:
Evaluating free-text responses in VSAs can be more time-consuming and subjective than grading multiple-choice questions, especially in large classes. Educators would need additional time to meticulously read and assess each response individually. Moreover, the lack of a structured format mandates the meticulous evaluation of students' answers.
Solution: Develop Clear Rubrics and Use Digital Marking Systems
Educators should develop clear and specific grading rubrics for VSAs, focusing on the key points they expect to see in the responses. Using digital marking systems that provide immediate feedback can also streamline the grading process. InteDashboard is an all-in-one TBL platform that allows educators to automate grading efficiently. Learn more by booking a consultation here.
Some VSAs may have multiple correct answers, leading to potential ambiguity in grading. This complexity arises because VSAs are designed to capture a broader understanding of the subject matter, encouraging students to think critically and explore diverse viewpoints.
Solution: Provide Guidelines and Encourage Team Discussions
Educators should anticipate possible variations in responses and provide guidelines to students on what constitutes an acceptable answer. Encouraging students to explain their reasoning during team discussions can also help clarify any ambiguities.
Ensuring that the VSAs align with the intended learning outcomes can be challenging because VSAs might not fully capture the complexity of the intended concepts when students provide answers in just a few words. Consequently, it can be difficult to assess a comprehensive understanding, potentially leading to a mismatch between the question’s brevity and desired learning outcomes that might involve deeper application of knowledge.
Solution: Regularly Revise and Refine Assessment Approach
Educators should design VSAs that specifically target the key concepts and skills they want students to master. This involves careful consideration of the desired learning outcomes. Regularly revisiting and refining the assessment approach based on student performance and feedback is also essential to ensure that VSAs stay aligned with the intended learning outcomes.
All in all, by embracing VSAs and proactively addressing potential challenges, educators can pave the way for a more engaging, insightful, and effective learning journey for their students.