Over my many years of teaching I've struggled with what to do on the last day of class. In semesters where there will be a "fact based" final exam, like a multiple choice test, that day can be spent in review. But in other classes, where the final is an essay, or no final at all, how do you wrap up the class? It seems a little silly to go over new material in those cases. But, what to do instead?
The first day is easy, review the course requirements, introduce yourself, introduce the class topic. There is a lightness and sense of excitement, on both sides. What will these students be like? How can I engage them? Who is this instructor? What kind of experience will this class be? There are many pedagogy articles that talk about how to make the first day exciting and interesting.
The last day, even in the best of classes, there is a bit of weariness. Everyone is looking to the future and this class is the past. Students are thinking about the pile of tasks they need to complete before their last exam or project. As an instructor, I'm also thinking of what I need to do in order to clear my slate and enjoy the upcoming break. None of us really want to be in class anymore.
Are we too old for an end of year party? Could we have cupcakes and games? Next year I'll teach my last last class. I think I'll plan a party.
