An Alternate Presentation Method For Final Examinations

Final examinations are a stressful time for everyone involved. In an effort to reduce the stress level (and have a little fun), over the last several years some of the faculty in the Biological Resources Engineering Department at the University of Maryland have given final examinations in the “Great Literature” format. The Great Literature series of final exams is based upon recognizable literary masterpieces. The styles and general contents of these examinations mimic those of the literature they represent. The courses in which this examination format has been used include a graduate course in Instrumentation Systems and undergraduate courses in Biological Systems Controls and in Biological Responses to Environmental Stimuli.