In these last few weeks of the semester, I find that more of the learners in the classroom are attempting to catch-up on the material in order to pass the final.  As I watched my Lions drop another game to the Steelers, I remember the advice I was given when I prepared for finals.  Many of the folks in class have played a sport at one time, so they can probably relate to the analogy:

Suppose the Lions wanted to prepare for a football game.  There are three ways to prepare.  First, you can watch football, go on the web and watch videos of football, and then show up at the stadium and play football.  A second option is to stay up all night before the game and play football for 8 hours, and then show up for the game.  The third option is to practice a few hours of football throughout the week, and show up for the game.  What option is going to probably be the best way to prepare for the game?

There are many who would argue, probably successfully, that final exams are not a game.  But the preparation is the same.  Watching the instructor do problems, watching You-Tube, and cramming the night before may result in success for some, but more likely than not a methodical approach to studying over a period of time will be more productive.  The problem for the instructor is now to convince the learner to work consistently at mastering the topic at hand.  Many quizzes, assignments, and checking homework can indicate a pattern of insufficient academic progress, or can verify that the learner is keeping pace with the material.

We do not want the learners to get into the habit of procrastination regarding their academic pursuits.  They should be like the Lions, preparing consistently for the next event.  Sure, they are going to fall at times, but the results should be more successful than sitting back taking the easier path of lesser resistance.