NCJ Number
134386
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Education Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (Fall 1991) Pages: 255-266
Date Published
1991
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Although it is commonly argued that learning cannot take place in the mass class, that teacher evaluation are lower, that student grades are lower, and that it is generally a bad experience even if necessary, the author contends that some of these perceptions are wrong.
Abstract
At least fact-based learning and good teaching are possible in the mass class, and students will recognize this teaching with good evaluations. The experience is draining, however, and all the usual problems are amplified. Much of the literature on the mass class presumes there will be sufficient help from teaching assistants, and the class will break down into small discussion groups at least once a week. The reality, however, is that training assistant help has been cut over the past 20 years, and it is unlikely that most professors of criminology or criminal justice outside graduate departments will have any help at all. Therefore, the use of multiple choice tests versus essay exams is recommended as well as the maintenance of a certain level of control over the class. Mass class teachers must be better organized than their colleagues and must be prepared to deal with the emotional rigors. 20 references (Author abstract modified)