1_StudentComments

Selected Learning Self-Assessments / Educational Readings Commentaries, fall 2003, from General Biology I students at the Pecan Campus, and from General Biology II students at the Starr County Campus. Grammar / spelling errors have not been corrected. Names have been removed. If you wrote one of the passages and you want your name included -- let me know (send me an e-mail). Other comments: Click here. Foto: "Mesquite at Rio Grande", by Roma 1999 (© 2004, Jan A. Nilsson).

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(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "The academic quarter is a great idea! I found it helped me get into "Biology-mode"")
[Learning Self-Assessment] I have been out of school for four years, and I did not know what kind of student I would be this semester. This is the first time in my life that I am juggling work, school, and home. (All of which are full time jobs.) I was a bit intimidated at first, but soon discovered that I could do it!

The best thing for me was to look over the entire syllabus, frequently, and keep all assignments fresh on my mind throughout the semester. I would take care of any work that could be done ahead of time. I would read and review often. By the way, the academic quarter is a great idea! I found it helped me get into "Biology-mode".

Biology is a subject that really interests me, and having a teacher like Dr. Nilsson was just the icing on the cake.

("Students should be taught responsibility and consequences... It is important for students to be the masters of their success and also their failures.")
[Educational Readings Commentary] Education can be a bit tricky. When one goes into Education, sure, you think it will be fun and rewarding. You think all the vacation time is great. One never thinks that it's full of red tapes and pitfalls.

Speaking as someone who is planning on going into Elementary Education, I feel uneasy. I feel uneasy about the state of our education system. When 5th graders are asked to draw a conclusion, and their responce is: Miss, give me some scratch paper to "draw" my conclusion. And 6th grade students cannot read cursive writing, there is definitely something wrong. These instances actually happened. Forget that they actually happened at the school where I work, it could have happened at any elementary school.

I feel like I am about to embark on an uphill battle with many obstacles. I need to stay focused, and remind myself of why I decided on Education. I am doing it to improve the learning situation for our young students. Students should be taught responsibility and consequences. I feel that somehow some of that has gotten lost. It is important for students to be the masters of their success and also their failures.

I want to keep learning and growing, and hopefully that hunger for knowledge will rub-off on someone who will thank me later.

[Student received an B in General Biology I.]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "I really appreciate the notes online and your emphasis on the important areas of biology. I am going to be taking General Biology II next semester and I really feel prepared for it. Thank you.")
[Learning Self-Assessment] I am very happy that I took General Biology I this semester. I learned a lot. I remember learning some of the basics of biology in junior high and high school but nothing really stuck. I feel like I'm definitely going to remember what I learned this semester. I never realized how much one cell could totally affect the whole body. I never really thought about how the body runs and how it maintains itself. I really appreciate the notes online and your emphasis on the important areas of biology. I am going to be taking General Biology II next semester and I really feel prepared for it. Thank you.

[Student received a B in General Biology I.]

"The main thing that I learned from the articles was that everyone worries to much about students who are failing. The students who do fail choose to fail.")
[Educational Readings Commentary] The main thing that I learned from the articles was that everyone worries to much about students who are failing. The students who do fail choose to fail. I have two children and still manage to get a 90 or above on almost all my classes. I do my homework with one child hanging on my arm while the other complains that I've been studying for too long.

It really upsets me when I see someone without kids who still get failing grades. It makes me wonder what these people are doing with their time. They complain that the class is too hard and that they don't understand. In the meantime they talk or sleep all through class and don't even open their books once the whole semester. I personally think that we should stop worrying about failures and start rewarding the ones who are trying and succeeding. Maybe if the students who aren't failing get recognition and rewards the failures would have something to strive for. If the passing students keeping getting ignored while the failures get all the attention nothing is going to change.

[Student received a B in General Biology I.]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "I can honestly say that whatever grades I got, I earned on my own, and that makes me proud. Study, study, study... that's all it takes.")
[Learning Self-Assessment] The end of the semester is here and now it is time for our Learning Self-Assessment. All my thoughts take me back to the beginning of the semester, and I admit I am quite ashamed of myself. Just knowing that I could have done a whole lot better makes me mad. Regardless of my grade, I have so say that this class was a wonderful, challenging learning experience. Dr. Nilsson told us from the beginning , "I do NOT give you a grade at the end of the semester, I only report the grade you have EARNED." Those words have stayed with me ever since and have helped me throughout the semester, in all my classes. I remember when I received the lowest grade in the whole class. I felt so stupid, but having to tell my kids that day was even worse. We have always instilled in our kids to strive and do their best, well, I certainly did not do that myself. Anyhow, that moment in time changed everything for me, and I knew I was capable of doing better. I stopped making excuses and got to studying, and I told my kids, "we need to work together and I need your help, Mom, wants to make good grades just like you, therefore please, allow me the time that I need to study," and I took it from there. My grades starting getting better and my kids were alwayts anxious to know my grades after a test.

Dr. Nilsson is a wonderful professor, who lives by his wsords,. and taught us the value of education. In his class, I can honestly say that whatever grades I got, I earned on my own, and that makees me proud. My advice to other students is: "If you are in college that means that you have within you the mentality to do college level work, therefore give it all you have, and the end result will be rewardeing." Finally, study, study, study... that's all it takes!

("The problem I think is that some students don't want to put much effort into their studies, but they do expect the "good grade".")
[Educational Readings Commentary] The Educational Readings were very interesting. The article that really caught my attention was, "Don't rule out STCC for college". When I told my friends that I would be going back to school, their first response was, "Oh, that's great! When will you start UTPA?" When I told them that I would be attending STCC, I noticed that they didn't seem that interested in hearing about it. I asked them why, and they answered, "Well, why not UTPA, is it because, I hear STCC is easier?" I explained to them that the professors at STCC were just as good as any professor at UTPA. I have attended both, and one thing I can say about STCC is that it's not that it is easier, it just that the classes are a lot smaller, therefore, the professors can offer more individual help to their students. As for classes, any class can be challenging if you don't devote study time to it. The problem I think is that some students don't want to put much effort into their studies, but they do expect the "good grade".

[Student earned an B in General Biology I. ]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "I also enjoyed learning about evolution. Before I never thought that I would change my opinion, however, this all does make sense. ")
[Learning Self-Assessment] I began this class thinking that it was quite difficult. I found myself struggling in the beginning, and I never wanted to fall behind because I thought that I would never understand. I found out that it was not so bad. This class was interesting and it all made sense. The key to understanding is studying. Studying is also the only way to pass the class and depending on how much time spent studying determines your grade.

I learned many new things that actually have great detail. I know exactly how photosynthesis and cellular respiration take place along with other things. Yet, before I was like other people that did not realize how detailed the process is and how important it is. I found these two topics to be very interesting and I feel as if I know.

I also enjoyed learning about evolution. Before I never thought that I would change my opinion, however, this all does make sense. It is interesting to know how we humans do have some relation with other species.

What I found most difficult was Genetics. I had a difficult time with the punnett squares, when it was not a simple genetic trait. I think overall I got it, but I did not feel confident about knowing it well. Genetics is, however, very interesting. You learn to understand genes, traits, and also blood typing.

Overall this class was great. I know I really learned and understood all the subjects a great deal. This I feel has to do with the professor. Education is important to you, and it is very clear that you want your class to learn. You explained everything very well, and I would like all instructors to show a little care for the student's success.

[Student earned a B in General Biology I.]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "I am very pleased that you have a web site for your students that is extremely beneficial to our learning...")
[Learning Self-Assessment] This semester has been an excellent experience for me. I have actually learned quite a bit other than just what was in the books. I am very pleased that you have a web site for your students that is extremely beneficial to our learning the material in a much more progressive manner. In your web site I discovered a file that you hade designed to teach us how to better use our time more effectively for studying and learning and not just regurgitation what we were reading.

One thing I know I will always remember is the process it took for me to learn and never forget what the photosynthesis and cellular respiration are. The way you quizzed us every time we would walk into your classroom, made me go home and quiz myself as well, so that next time, I would walk into your class I would certainly know how to correctly spell and know what order to place all the chemicals. This became my favorite part of Biology I. I also enjoyed my assignments of collecting beetles. I had never taken time or realized how many different types of beetles we had in the Rio Grande Valley.

In addition, the photos of the flowers and the trees that were on your web site, were a delight to view. This I know took time and effort on your behalf and demonstrated to me the great interest you place on education. I thank you and wish you the very best in life.

[Student received a B in General Biology I.]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: "One thing I did find scary was the talk about the Earth's population doubling in the next decades... Somehow I would hope people could take this class just so they can know what is happening to our planet.")
[Learning Self-Assessment] I personally found this General Biology I class to be very exiting and a great learning experience. Dr. Nilsson has made everything so interesting and easy to comprehend. When I first began the course I saw this class as a mandatory class for my degree plan. That was not the case after attending a few classes. I can see why people would like to teach others about the start of life (other than religion) or at least how it evolved.

Learning some of the terminology was difficult at first, but I found a way to manage. This class is difficult but worth it. The wide range of coverage from atoms to the great dinosaurs to the depletion of all our natural resources was covered. One thing I did find scary was the talk about the Earth's population doubling in the next decades. That makes me worry about my son and his life ahead. Somehow I would hope people could take this class just so they can know what is happening to our planet.

[Student earned an B in General Biology I. ]

(General Biology I Student, fall 2003: " I like to thank you for pushing me to the edge and for challenging me throughout the semester. Now I have been on my toes, which feels pretty good.")
[Learning Self-Assessment] The class has been a great experience. Dr. Nilsson I have learned that you have been 100% right from the beginning of the semester. Yes, teachers have been babying us students, but what I have learned from this class is that I have to take a stand and discipline myself. I know that I have to be prepared for a pop quiz at any given time and not wait to the last minute to be studying or more like memorizing the material.

I no longer procrastinate on studying for an exam or approaching my assignments. I have learned a lot of material from this class not like in high school where everything was just memorized and then forgotten. The material has sunk in for good. I like to thank you for pushing me to the edge and for challenging me throughout the semester. Now I have been on my toes, which feels pretty good.

I now have a whole different view about how to go about the rest of my college years. The class was very interesting and different than any other college class I have had. The projects we were assigned were quite fun and even better because there were a variety of projects assigned. Not like in other class every assignment or project had to do with just one thing out of the whole semester.

This class was something I looked forward to attending even though it was a night class. I know that you opened up my eyes and other fellow students as well. You have not only inspireede me, but my fellow classmates as well. Dr. Nilsson keep up the good work, your lectures and examples are the key to the class. You explain things so well that nobody should missunderstand what is being taught. You find ways for us students to understand the material. I know that you Dr. Nilsson care for the student of the future and strive for us to learn as much as possible. I know there is hope for future students.

[Student earned an B in General Biology I. ]

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(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "I realized that Dr. Nilsson was trying to send a message...")
[Educational Readings Commentary] The Educational Readings were very interesting papers handed out by Dr. Nilsson. After reading some of them I realized that Dr. Nilsson was trying to send a message through them. After putting them all together I realized that Dr. Nilsson's main point is for us to take school seriously. many students take it for granted that the professors will give you the grade. College is not all the time easy especially when there are obstacles in between but setting your mind to do good and it will happen.

[Student earned a B in General Biology II.]

(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "Students don't need curves... responsibility is what they need!")
[Educational Readings Commentary] What have I learned about education? I have realized that grades are not given, and that at no point should we blame the instructor if we disapprove of our grade. My main subject, however, is "curves". I truly believe that curves (boosters) tend to persuade the students to study less, a lot less! This semester I just stop studying for general biology II; I figured out that I could get B's if I didn't study, which meant it would be converted to an "A" because of the curve. Now, if there wouldn't have been a curve I would have worked harder, therefore, I would've learned more. My point is, if students don't want to study, and 3/4 of the class fails, so be it. If at least one student is getting As and Bs that means the instructor is teaching the material properly, and he/she should not boost anybodies grade. Students don't need curves; they need to realize that they are in college, responsibility is what they need! If students are getting 40s and 50s, they definitely shouldn't be in college to begin with.

[Student received an A in General Biology II.]

(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "I hope you post this comment... ")
[Learning Self-Assessment] SO far there is not another class I have enjoyed more than this one. Unfortunately, for may of us biology in high school was a horrible experience and we come into college already judging this class and many others as 'further torment.' The most important thing I will take from this experience is a reassurance of my Christian faith and how it takes an awesome God to create such a marvelous work. If I ever believed in evolution, this class helped me understand the [possibility] of it. I am in awe of life and I leave appreciating you for dedicating yourself to opening students eyes to the "fearful and marvelous works" (Psalm 139) God has created. Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for everything you have taught us. You are an excellent professor, and I wish less students would be intimidated by a real professor - You.

I hope you post this comment...
[Done... (the instructors comment)]

[Student earned an B in General Biology II.]

(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "I really enjoyed this semester and I really hope that other classes will read this later on...")
[Educational Readings Commentary] The article I chose to do this paper on was the "First Day of Class Advice". I really thought that this was the best because the advise that you gave was really honest and I think that everyone should have read it. The truth is that you give the grade that we earn. If we study we pass and if we don't we fail. Some of us try to make up excuses that the professor doesn't like us just to justify the grade that we have received, but in reality we have earned it. I know that if I would have studied more I would of gotten a much better grade this semester than what I am going to get. We just have to put some time into the things we do. I really enjoyed this semester and I really hope that other classes will read this later on and follow advice.

(" I learned that I am a marsupial...")
[Learning Self-Assessment] What I have learned in Biology II starting Aug. 2003 have been many things. The very first thing I remember not knowing was the word taxa. The first quiz that we took was the first day of class and I didn't know what that word meant. Following the few days of class I was very confused and I didn't know what to expect from it but further on into the semester I knew I would make it especially since I passed my first exam. I learned how to distinguish different types of tissues by looking at them through a microscope and at the end I finally used a microscope myself. I would always let my partner focus because I was afraid to break the slide. I also learned that there are five kingdoms in which everything is divided into. I learned that I am a marsupial and that bats are not birds, and finally that the word Homo sapiens is underlined and ends with an s.

[Student earned a C in General Biology II. Humans are NOT marsupials, kangaroos are...]

(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "I accomplished what I set forth to do this semester.")

[Learning Self-Assessment] I accomplished what I set forth to do this semester. Being a single parent and returning to school is not an easy task, but I yearn for a college degree. I balanced a fulltime job along with my biology class. I enjoy the challenge of learning everyday and this biology class has been very demanding. As of the first day of class I knew that I was in for a challenge, especially with the instructor, Dr. Jan A. Nilsson. He was adamant in teaching the students and reminded us of the opportunities that were given to us. He expressed to us that what we contributed in our studies is what we deserve as a grade. To show our self-respect as adults to learn was a constant reminder. Discipline in my study habits was overwhelming, but I realized that if I did not focus my attention to the class, I would not learn. Whatever the grade given to me at the end of the semester is what I EARNED.

[Student earned an B in General Biology II.]

(General Biology II Student, fall 2003: "I just loved to go around the lab, watch and name different specimens, and put them in their correct kingdom and phylum.")

[Learning Self-Assessment] I've learned a lot of new things in this class other than just remembered from my General Biology I classes and other I remembered from [high] school. At first I thought that the class was going to be really complicated but actually we had everything we needed to succeed in this class in the palms of our hands.

Before this class I just hated any kind of insects and I couldn't hold them even when they were already dead, but after having to collect them and put them in alcohol and then manipulate them to mount the insects I just don't hate them anymore.

The section that I liked the most was the last one about ecology and human impact, this section really showed us the reality of how our world is affected by ourselves and what is our future if we don't change the way we think or act. I also loved the lab midterm and final practicum. I just loved to go around the lab, watch and name different specimens, and put them in their correct kingdom and phylum.

("I really can't believe that college students don't know where the continents are.")
[Educational Readings Commentary] Education is the most important thing that human kind has. Without education and our desire to keep learning we wouldn't be any different as every other living thing in this planet. I don't know exactly how education is here, education in lower levels like elementary, middle, or high school, but for what I can see or hear from my brother, he is 13 and he is in 7th grade, and my uncle and aunt, teachers from middle and high school at Roma, I don't think that education here is good.

I'm from Peru, a country in South America. I graduated from a school there in 1999. I thank my parents for that opportunity as my father says "The only real and good thing that parents leave their kids is education", and I couldn't agree more. The education I received in Peru was really helpful for me when I moved here more than a year ago.

I hear my classmates saying that their classes are too hard or that they have too much homework. Well I just can say that in my school I had 9 hours of classes in which I had classes of Math; History; Geography; Grammar (in Spanish); all kinds of Science (in Spanish) like biology, chemistry and physics; Computer Applications; Art; besides my English classes like grammar, reading, listening, and English literature; and how can I forget my French class. I had these classes every semester, every year, and I didn't complain. I am really thankful for that, for me it's like having a general knowledge, I really can't believe that college students don't know where the continents are. When I first told some classmates that I am from Peru they thought that it was an island and it was in Africa.

[Student earned an B in General Biology II. ]

Copyright 2004, Jan A. Nilsson. Web page layout and design © and intellectual property Jan A. Nilsson. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Page created 04.I.2004, last updated 06.I.2004, most likely during the wee hours of the morning on a G3 PowerBook owned by Jan A. Nilsson.

-- Disclaimer: "Dr. Nilsson's CyberOffice", at the time of writing located as a file under the South Texas Community College's (STCC) web server with the general URL http://stcc.cc.tx.us/, is the intellectual property of Dr. Jan A. Nilsson, member of STCC biology faculty. The content of Dr. Nilsson's CyberOffice does not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of the STCC faculty, staff, administration, and Board of Trustees.