Rubric Rant

I am in the process of writing an essay for grad school which analyzes a tutorial designed to teach students how to plan a research strategy, find and then evaluate information. The tutorial is an excellent model for both its organization and for integrating education theories with thoughtful learning strategies. The website is also very practical and functional.

My problem with this assignment is that our grades are dependent upon a rubric. The rubric tells me that I must define the education theories and strategies, analyze the differences between the two terms, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the tutorial, make suggestions for improvement with examples, use APA style correctly, write 3-5 double-spaced pages and OH YEAH, be creative. What????

How the heck am I supposed to be creative when the professor basically wants the information regurgitated back up from the assigned article? Rubrics insult my intelligence as a grad student. If a GRADUATE student can’t figure out how to write an analytical essay without a rubric then they probably shouldn’t be in grad school.

Now granted, I appreciate knowing what is expected, but seriously. A 3-5 page paper with a rubric attached does not really allow for very much creativity.

Yet another reason why I hate this particular class and tend to procrastinate.

Procrastination

I really procrastinated on a paper that was due last night. I was trying to think about why. The reason is not because I find the assignment difficult or challenging, but because I was not interested in writing on this particular topic. It was a too broad in my opinion, and I did not feel like I had enough resources to write this paper. This is ironic considering I am studying to be a librarian, and though I am familiar enough with how to find the information I need, this particular topic was SO broad that I had trouble pinpointing one or two key ideas on which to base my paper.

Reasons I procrastinate include:

1. Topic is too broad and I have trouble narrowing it down.
2. Not have enough information to make convincing arguments.
3. No interest in the subject I’m writing about.
4. Not understanding the contextual value of assignments– if an assignment seems like busywork, then I’ll just avoid doing it.

Some of these reasons do correspond to an article I read about why students procrastinate. I don’t know why I’m so unmotivated in this particular class, but it borders on resistance. I am not an “engaged student” in this class.

However, the paper is now finished, and I can move on. I will gladly receive the “C” I deserve and continue on to enjoy the weekend.