Large Enrolment Snapshot

The members discussed the challenges and strategies for engaging students with feedback in large enrolment classes. Strategies included:

• Effectively setting expectations for TAs to extend feedback reach and to manage the 
  workload.
• Developing detailed grading rubrics in D2L for clarity and consistency.
• Emphasizing the importance of summative feedback rather than specific feedback on 
  each individual grading category. 
• Introducing rotation systems for grading among TAs and instructors to prevent bias and 
  ensure fairness.
• Encouraging direct student engagement for detailed feedback upon request.
• Setting clear expectations for feedback, for both TAs and students.

The participants of the online community of practice explored tools and techniques for providing efficient feedback in large enrolment settings. These tools and techniques included:

• Use of tools like Gradescope for streamlined grading, especially in STEM courses, which 
  allow for adjustments based on ongoing assessment and the use of detailed rubrics.
• Benchmark sessions with TAs to ensure grading consistency.
• Utilization of audio and video feedback for a more personalized touch.
• Adopting bulk feedback methods, such as news items, to provide feedback to the whole class.

The discussion focused on refining feedback strategies to not only mitigate the workload on 
instructors but also to significantly enhance the learning experience for students in large 
enrolment courses. Some strategies included:

• Shifting towards a more summative approach to feedback that encourages students to 
  reflect on where they can earn marks rather than where they lost marks.
• Encouraging students to actively seek out feedback for deeper engagement and 
  understanding, thereby fostering a more interactive feedback process.
• Setting clear expectations regarding grading timelines to manage expectations.