Evaluation and Assessment | Teaching Practices |Teaching with Technology| Sample Course Evaluation Forms
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2. Teaching Practices
2.4. Knowing Your Students
Challenging Talented Students
Many students choose the University of Florida because they are seeking intellectual and creative challenges to stretch themselves. Even when faculty carefully structure the learning experiences for first-year students, it may be difficult to pitch the class at a level appropriate for all students. For the students who may feel the need for greater intellectual stimulation than the majority, experienced faculty offer ideas which address the full range of talents and needs.
Challenge top students by helping them find opportunities to get involved in research. The Undergraduate Research Initiative provides information and resources for students, including many first-year students.
If you use group activities in class, vary the way in which students form groups so that talented students are sometimes working with others at their own level and other times in mixed-ability groups. Talented students benefit from both challenging one another and also explaining concepts to peers.
Consider creating optional "challenge" problems or projects which allow motivated students to explore their interests and test their abilities. If you do not view a comprehensive final as essential for the type of course you teach, giving students the alternative of completing a modest project can provide a natural context in which they may explore their interests and discuss their work with faculty members.
Adapted from the Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence at Carnegie Mellon University
