Mud Cards Overview
Mud cards are an active learning technique introduced in class 595. They have a low barrier to entry and are easy to use and implement.
Key Benefits
- Doesn't substantially alter the flow of the class.
- Requires minimal resources and preparation.
Description and Procedure
It's at least an index card. At the end of every class, students write down:
- Things they're curious about.
- Things they don't understand.
- Things that piqued their interest.
Students are asked to indicate which category best describes their response.
Utility and Effectiveness
Students can anonymously identify:
- What they understand.
- What they don't understand.
This makes it possible for the teacher to quickly sort and examine the cards later. Effective even in large classes (595 is about 15 people, but it works in a class of 100).
Problem Categories
Generally speaking, cards fit into three main problem categories:
- Assists the teacher in rapidly determining whether students found a subject difficult or are curious about more details.
Reaction and Follow-up from the Instructor
The instructor may choose to:
- Write a piece for the course website.
- Obtain additional resources.
- Clear up any misunderstandings in the following lesson.
This enables the teacher to prepare in advance by providing numerous examples or explanations.
One example question received was whether all of the learning theories discussed were equally valid.
This gives pupils specific feedback according to their areas of confusion.
At the end of class, it only takes two minutes.
Other Name and Origin
Before students can leave, a colleague calls them "tickets to leave" and demands a card. It is thought that the aero/astro department at MIT was the first to use it.
It is currently in widespread use and regarded as highly efficient.
Challenges
Consistency is the biggest problem or concern:
- Teachers ought to make frequent use of them early in the semester.
- Students are unable to develop the habit and recognize their value if they are used inconsistently.
Based on the cards, it is crucial that the instructor return the following time with pertinent information. Continued participation is encouraged by proving that the instructor has reviewed the cards and is assisting.
This is referred to as a "win-win for everyone".
