Hi Nominda,
It is such a simple concept but many instructors miss it. They talk the talk but don't walk the walk themselves. We are the models that the students observe and follow, we have to be professional in all that we do.
Gary
I totally agree with you in saying "practice what you preach". You cannot make students come on time if you yourself is always late. Students will not respect you if you are the number one offender.
On the first day of class(repeated during the first week of classes),the checklist of rules and school policies, course syllabus which provides all requirements and expectations are read out loud and explained.
I also discuss my expectations of them and explain penalties for deviating from the rules and requirements.
I address the students' questions, and if I am not able to answer, I refer them to the program administrator.
Setting expectations from the beginning is vital in order to maintain an undisruptive learning process.
Hi Laurie,
Sounds like you have a very clear understanding of how you want a class to start and what the expectations are for your students. This makes easier for everyone to be on the same page.
Gary
The first day of class is vital to establishing the ground rules. Many of the younger students have had no structure in their previous schools and truly do not know how to sit quietly and respectfully. Clearly written syllabi are reviewed from front to back and syllabus acknowledgement forms are signed and dated by the students stating that they clearly understand the class expectations.
I present myself as an instructor but also a human being with human emotions and flaws. I'm not afraid to laugh at myself!
Each student brings a "story" to the classroom that, if allowed to share with others in a supportive and safe setting," can, and does, enrich the overall class experience for everyone.
I challenge the students to "compete" (in teams) against one another in a sporting and good natured manner. It not only enhances the learning process but, gets everyone energized and anxious to learn more.
This was a great refresher course on the importance of begining clear on expectations and being consistance.
I remind myself daily on what is expected of me and that the students are watching.
Allison,
I agree totally, you must also be consistant with your expectations from class to class. The word will get around before they come to your class and follow through during the entire class from day to day.
I teach graphic design so I keep previous year's student work as examples of what I expect. This helps them visualize what an "A" project looks like.
Being new to this environment (classroom instruction) and not yet having the opportunity to start a class. However, even though I began instructing in the middle of a phase I still needed to set and manage student expectations by being very clear with regard to everything from their classroom behavior to standards of performance. I have also attempted to develop rapport with each student to ensure feedback so I can alter instructional style and as necessary content. I also make every attempt to maintain professionalism since that is also what I ask of them.
leading by example is key. Students will do what you do and not necessarily follow what you say.
Hi Shiv,
Isn't that what instructors live for, the "Ah Ha" moment when the students actually get it and realize what we have been trying to teach them all along.
Gary
Whenever I go over the section on "what is expected of you", I usually give an idea to my students of how competitive the outside world is, and why it is absolutely essential to get the skill sets necessary to compete in the present and future environments. I start off this section by telling them that to master this or any course for that matter, all that is required is logical reasoning skills. Over the coursework I show them how they can recognize their own potential and make use of it. Very soon they learn to apply their understanding of concepts in the classroom to everyday experiences around them. Their moment of pride comes when they can challenge themselves to reason out an answer. Presenting a professional and human face, and the ability to show a student that each has a unique potential, is integral to a great learning environment.
Hi Gary,
I use the first hour to discuss, in depth, exactly what the course will cover, what the students can expect to accomplish, how the course is graded, and how they can get the most out of this class. All of this material is covered in both lecture and handouts.
i would creating the model for their learning success and expect them willing to learn, work hard, be on time, discipline, and how seriously they want the course.
Understand your students and their skill level. Deliver them to the point. Show them tips and tricks. Keep them informed about the job market and industrial requirements. If you are able to create their interest in the subject, and they get the point why they are in the school, it will set the expectations.
Hi Jessica,
You have laid out an excellent mission for your teaching. By you caring you show your students that if they will invest time and effort in your class you will do all that you can to help the succeed. Keep up the good work, I know it is paying off for you.
Gary
Hi Dr. Stover,
Very well said. Career colleges must be teaching to business and industry standards. If not then we are not meeting our professional obligations. In addition, we need to be teaching our students the life skills needed to succeed in the workplace. If we don't it won't be too long until we are out of business as career preparation institutions.
Gary
Just as the program being taught builds to a successful ending (graduation), the instructor needs to orientate the student in the same manner. That is, examples of how the curriculum content builds toward the actual work setting from one course to the next; explaining how the student must demonstrate the skills needed to enter that work environment; and the sequence of how an exceptional skill level will be achieved through knowledge building from one course to the next. In this way, the student will not only understand what the instructor expects of them, but also what their future employer will expect of them.
I believe it is important to let students know at the beginning of the semester what is expected of them and what behaviors will not be tolerated. The main aspects I teach in my classroom are respect, honesty, responsibility, and cooperation; because I think it is impossible to have an effective class without them. In addition, I feel both teachers and students need to be willing to give of themselves and realize what needs to be done to accomplish the goals set for the class. I feel an instructor needs to show that he or she cares for their students and will take the necessary steps to support them. My students know that if they are willing to try, I am willing to work the extra hours with them. If students need extra help, I am always available. Above all, my students know that I love what I do, and this passion has been known to be contagious.
