I spent my first day back at the office trying to plan an ENG 102 experience that incorporates research in a way that is both informative and engaging to students who walk in the door thinking english is on par with root canal in terms of stuff they don’t want to do. Since I’m expecting them to do it for 16 weeks, I need to create an experience that any student would be able to get something out of.
I am a strong believer in the multiplayer classroom. I’ve blogged on game theory often enough for readers to know that I believe people learn better in the crucible of competition. I also feel that the lens or theme through which they learn needs to be relatable. I’ve chosen a few sample research projects to teach them the basic skills and give them the skills they need to know how to conduct their own research. What I’m working on now are the different types of research papers (purpose) and I’m moving towards doing something with conspiracy theories, urban myths, and religious myths. I’d like to do scientific research papers as well. For example, the idea of Lipozene offends me, and I’d love to see students look at these products that fleece folks of their money. How does that kind of research look different than literature or social science research?
I’m starting to feel that twinge of passion for the upcoming semester. I’m not entirely pleased to be back at work so close to the new year, but I know I’ve been spoiled in the past, and I know what an honor it is to do the job I do.