As courses come to a close, it is easy to forget the value of a good
closing experience. In the final weeks of a course, students are likely
to be stressed and not take the time to do the lists and the planning
that can help reduce stress and provide a calming atmosphere. A favorite
image of mine is from David Allen of Getting Things Done. Allen notes
that making a list helps us to clear the "psychic ram" of our brains and
we feel more relaxed and more in control. Once we have made our list
and schedule, we don't have to continually remind ourselves of what needs
to be done and when.
Here are a few hints for closing out a course experience with style and
panache.
Take time to remind students of what's next and when assignments
and readings are due. Announcements of this type provide a "To Do"
list and schedule for the learners. And by implication this list provides
a helpful "To Do" list and schedule for you. As always, it is good
to post reminders and make references to the planning list in your comments. And update as you go.
Plan the ending of the course experience. A well-designed ending
of a course provides opportunities for reflection and integration of
useful knowledge. It is also a time to wrap up positive social and
cognitive experiences.