Studying For College Final Exams!!!

[BassyBill]

Thanks for this. I particularly appreciate his portrait of the returning student - I've often noted the difference with the non-trads (older students returning to school after having worked), who are far more motivated and have a clearer sense of why they're in school compared to the average run of traditional kids.

I love that excerpt because it sums up so many of my views on education as they've developed over the years. The book itself is an absolute must read if you've never read it. Trust me on this - if any of you guys never ever read another book, then be sure to read at least this one. Challenging and controversial in places but never boring, and it's just beautifully written. Be careful if you Google it as there are some major spoilers out there online (especially Wikipedia) and this is not a book that should be spoiled for anyone. This link is safe if you want to know a bit more. Some very balanced reviews.

Amazon.com: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values (9780060589462): Robert M. Pirsig: Books

 

[fdeck]

I hate numerical or letter grading systems of any description. Such systems fly straight in the face of everything that research tells us about good assessment practice. But this isn't a new idea. Robert Pirsig was experimenting with not using grades back in the 60s. This extract from his book "Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance" is a great read on the topic (attached).

I think that I must have been too young when I read the book, so I'll have to get it out again.

I hate grading systems too, but I saw little choice other than to play the game to win. I didn't want a bunch of numbers to detract from my future ability to pursue further education or learning opportunities.

I don't think it detracted from my education, but was just one more task that had to be attended to, such as making sure the car had enough gas in the tank, or paying my taxes on time.

 

[Gaolee]

Funk$tar probably aced everything already.

 

[Funk$tar]

Funk$tar probably aced everything already.

haha thanks man, but I barely passed! XD
I had a lot of tragic stuff happen to me and studying became a hassle because I was so depressed, but I'm feeling better now and I know my Sophomore year of college will be ten times better than my Freshmen!

 

[Gaolee]

As a pathological optimist, I always think the best is yet to come. So far, the world hasn't let me down.

 

[Funk$tar]

As a pathological optimist, I always think the best is yet to come. So far, the world hasn't let me down.

You are so right!!!
I don't know if you saw, but I've been posting everywhere today because I was featured on notreble.com!!!
So when you say, "the best is yet to come," you are so right and hope all the best for not only me, but you and everyone else as well!

 

[Gaolee]

No, I didn't see. Congratulations. I'll take a look.

 

[Pilgrim]

Expect the best at all times. Be as prepared as possible and practical for the worst.

Much of life is not quite as good as you hoped, but much better than you feared.