Quizzes or Editing Exercises? In Teaching AP Style, Both Methods Work Equally. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Littlefield, Christina
• Is Part Of: Journalism & mass communication educator. Volume 77:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 61
• Page End: 73
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: AP style -- Associated Press -- quizzes -- editing exercises -- authentic assessments -- effectiveness; Communication -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- United States -- Periodicals; Journalism -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- United States -- Periodicals; Mass media -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- United States -- Periodicals; 070.07
• DOI: 10.1177/1077695821999281
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1077-6958

Abstract

Journalism educators train students on Associated Press (AP) style, helping them navigate grammar, accuracy, and ethical issues. However, there is little peer-reviewed research testing which methods are most effective. This article used a quasi-experimental pretest/posttest methodology over six semesters to test three common methods: timed, closed-book, in-class quizzes; timed, open-book, in-class editing exercises; and take-home exercises. No one method proved statistically superior. All types moved students from high Fs to Cs. This study showed that learning AP style needs constant reinforcement.