Some people will be ready for considerably independent learning and will use the course requirements and the corresponding learning activities as vehicles for enhancing or supplementing personal learning. Other learners will require guidance, at least initially, in setting goals, establishing learning activities, and evaluating individual progress. The learning contract technique is used and either allows considerable freedom or may provide a fairly prescriptive path throughout the course depending on the learner. Serving as a validator, verifier, or evaluator of learner accomplishment both throughout and at the end of the course's time allotment. Evaluation and Feedback Evaluation and feedback are integral parts of any learning system whether a semester-long course, an intensive summer experience, or a personal learning endeavor.
Evaluation is a tool for measuring personal progress toward individual or course goals.
In addition, a formal institution like Elmira College requires that grades be established as marks for transcripts and degree completion. Thus, in terms of feedback it is expected that the communication process will indeed be a two-way street. Feedback should reflect not only how well class objectives are being met, the effectiveness of any instructional facilitation, and the extent to which your individual needs are being fulfilled, but also the quality of student contribution and involvement. Consequently, your oral and written feedback relative to questions or concerns you may have, more information you need, and any evaluation you have of the process, the content, or the instructor will be welcome at any time. Some techniques will be used throughout the course to help in this evaluation and feedback.