For universities and colleges that want to assess:
what applicants would contribute to a discussion setting
how applicants interpret media
applicants' ability to communicate effectively in a verbal way
applicants' approach to interrogating a piece of media
Master academic content
Think critically and solve complex problems
Work collaboratively
Communicate effectively
Learn how to learn
Develop academic mindsets
Rationale for Use
Having applicants participate in a discussion surrounding a piece of complex media will force applicants to exercise their critical thinking skills, as they will first have to individually interpret and analyze the media piece and then put their interpretations in conversation with another's. During this exchange, applicants will have to communicate their perspectives, evaluate those of another person's, and defend or revise their own-- a dynamic process that will help them develop or display academic mindsets. At the same time, they will have to collaborate with their partner to have a sustained and hopefully meaningful discussion by listening well, asking follow-up questions, and providing thoughtful responses.
Design
Possible Prompts
Stimulus media could be, but are not limited to, a poem, excerpt from a literary work, painting, music, or video clip. The discussion questoins themselves will be devised by the applicants.
Timeline
Evaluation Guide
Interpretation/Analysis
How did the applicant interpret the media piece? What perspective do they bring to the discussion?
Evolution of Ideas
How much does the applicant revise their initial interpretations throughout the conversation? How receptive are they to alternative interpretations? How much do they integrate ideas discussed and questions raised throughout the conversation?
Conversational Approach
How do they engage in the conversation? What role do they assume?
Communication
Is the applicant generally able to communicate their thoughts in a clear and concise way?
FAQs
Given that applicants will need to be given a considerable amount of time for the task, how will admissions offices feasibly evaluate all of the recordings?
The video call recordings do not need to be watched in full! Your office may decide to "spot-check" a few set intervals (i.e. only watch 00:00-00:03, 00:10-00:15, etc.), or watch the entirety of the clip at 2x speed, or something else.
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