Analytic Memo (classroom)

• To have students develop their ability to analyze problems using discipline-specific approaches and methods,
• To provide feedback to students on their analytic and communication skills, or
• To assess students’ abilities to communicate their analyses clearly and concisely to a specific audience.

• No special requirements for this approach.

The following workflow is meant as guidance for how you can facilitate Analytic Memo learning activity within a classroom.

Pre-Class

• Determine which analytic approaches or methods are to be assessed.
• Identify an appropriate, well-focused, and typical problem or situation for the students to analyze.
• Get background information on the problem.
• Define the recipient, subject, and purpose of the memo.
• Decide the technology students will use to write the memo and set up the technology space, if necessary.
• Decide whether students will work alone, in pairs, or small groups.
• Create an example memo on the subject to share with students.
• Create a template of the memo students will use to complete the assignment using Google Docs.
• Provide written directions to be handed out during class.

In-Class

• Specify the student’s role, the identity of the audience, the specific subject to be addressed. Identify the analytic approach students will use, the length limit (usually one or two pages), and the assignment deadline.
• Set up students into groups. 
• Share an example memo and explain to students how this assessment can help prepare them for subsequent course assignments and their careers.
• If students are to work on the document in class, give them time to do so. If students are to work on the document outside of class, tell them when the memo is due.

Post-Class

• Collect and review memos.
• Provide feedback/grade based on the quality of the analysis and communication displayed in the memo.
• Discuss the results of the activity at the next class meeting.

• The wearing of masks by students (particularly in large lecture halls) may make it difficult for students to hear one another when they are asked to speak. All classrooms that are large enough to normally require a microphone already have a microphone system with a communal clip-on pickup element. Further information about the availability of additional clip-on or headset microphone elements will be coming soon. View the instructions and short videos below to assist with the use of the microphones and the portable systems:
  • Using the PGA31 Headset Microphone with an AV Presentation System
  • Using the Bietrun Wireless Headset Microphone (or alternative brand) with the ION Arena Portable Speaker
  • Using the Giecy Portable Voice Amplifier (alternative)

• Creating a Document Template in Google Docs
• Using Google Docs Chat Feature to Collaborate
• Using Breakout Rooms in Zoom

Angelo, Thomas A., and K. Patricia Cross. Classroom Assessment Techniques: a Handbook for College Teachers. Jossey-Bass, 1993. pp. 177-180.