Unlocking Student Engagement with SAM Cengage Learning Features
In today's dynamic educational landscape, keeping students engaged and motivated is a constant challenge, especially considering the varying levels of computer skills they possess. As a computing professor with over 20 years of experience, I'm always searching for ways to continuously engage and motivate my students in the ever-changing educational landscape. SAM Cengage Learning features, particularly SAM Path, have proven to be a valuable tool in achieving this goal.
SAM Path: A Personalized Learning Journey
SAM Path is an adaptive learning assignment that consists of sequential combinations of exams and trainings. The core strength of SAM Path lies in its adaptability. Each SAM Path is customizable, allowing instructors to select specific tasks tailored to their course objectives. There are a variety of scheduling options that allow them to tailor the SAM Path to their specific needs. There is no right or wrong way to use a SAM Path. Whether integrated weekly, by unit, or by module into a traditional computing course or implemented in a non-computing course like data analytics, SAM Paths can be adjusted to meet specific needs.
The Pre-Exam > Training > Post-Exam Sequence
The sequential combination I prefer is Pre-Exam > Training > Post-Exam. My preferred sequence involves a Pre-Exam, followed by targeted Training, and concluding with a Post-Exam. Initially, students take a Pre-Exam to assess their existing skills. Based on the Pre-Exam results, a training is then automatically populated. This contains tasks the student answered incorrectly in the Pre-Exam. This training is then automatically populated, focusing on areas where the student demonstrated weakness in the Pre-Exam. Finally, a Post-Exam is then automatically populated, which contains tasks the student learned how to properly complete in the training. The Post-Exam evaluates their understanding and mastery of the concepts covered in the training.
Student-Centered Benefits
Students in my courses appreciate the personalized nature of SAM Paths. One of the most significant advantages of SAM Path is its personalized approach. It allows them to work through each SAM Path at their own pace and current computer application skill-level. Students can progress at their own pace, focusing on areas where they need the most support. If a student is well-versed in a particular Office application, it allows them to complete the SAM Path quicker. The Pre-Exam also provides students with a benchmark to understand what their current skill-level is with a specific Office application. This personalized learning experience caters to individual skill levels, allowing students to move quickly through familiar topics while dedicating more time to areas requiring improvement. Many are surprised and humbled that they’re not as well-versed in an application that they originally thought they were. The Pre-Exam serves as a valuable benchmark, providing students with an accurate assessment of their current skill level in specific applications. Students also appreciate that they’re provided with an opportunity to learn how to complete incorrect tasks without penalty. They’re given a chance to demonstrate that they’ve achieved that skill. The opportunity to learn from mistakes without penalty is highly valued by students. They are given a chance to demonstrate that they’ve achieved that skill. Through targeted training and subsequent re-evaluation, students gain confidence and a deeper understanding of the material.
Instructor Insights and Course Adjustment
From an instructor perspective, I can also run a report on the Pre-Exam scores to gauge what the current skill-level of my class is, so that I can make appropriate adjustments to my lesson plan. SAM Path also provides valuable insights for instructors. By analyzing Pre-Exam scores, instructors can gauge the overall skill level of the class and identify areas where additional instruction may be needed. This data-driven approach allows for adjustments to the lesson plan, ensuring that the course content is tailored to the specific needs of the students.
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Implementing SAM Path Effectively
I have used SAM Paths in my courses for several years. Having used SAM Paths for several years, I've learned that clear communication is key to successful implementation. It’s important to ensure students understand each component of the SAM path and the scheduling options that you’ve selected. Clear instructions, particularly regarding scheduling options and the number of attempts allowed for each component, are crucial. Instructions in the scheduling options window that reminds students of the number of attempts that I’ve selected for that component of the SAM Path. By setting clear expectations and providing ongoing support, instructors can maximize the benefits of SAM Path for both themselves and their students.
Integrating Cengage Learning Platforms
You’ve found your course materials! This includes access to your eBook and assignments. Accessing course materials is streamlined through the Cengage platform. If you purchased an access code, click “Enter your access code” to redeem it. Students can redeem access codes or purchase Cengage Unlimited for comprehensive access. Don’t have a code? Not ready to buy? Click “BUY CENGAGE UNLIMITED” to purchase access to Cengage Unlimited, a subscription that includes access to all your Cengage online learning platforms, eBooks, study tools and at least four FREE textbook rentals (just pay shipping/handling). Cengage Unlimited provides access to online learning platforms, eBooks, study tools, and textbook rentals. One subscription is all you need. It can be used across all your classes that use Cengage products. A single subscription covers all Cengage products used across different courses.
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