Hi Desmond,
I like the fact that you have them sign off to the fact that they have been through orientation and that they know what the expectations of the course are. This greatly reduces any confusion and frustration.
Gary
My students receive a packet in a pocket folder. I create a sticker for the cover which welcomes them to the Program and the statement "your journey to success is about to begin".
Included in the packet is their Master Course Outline for the first Module Course, Timeline for the Program, Instructions for Student Self-Service Portal, Attendance and Absence Policy, Attendance, Warning and Probation Protocol, Class Participation Grade Relative to Warnings & Probation, Cheating Policy, Education Department Student Dress Code, Student Code of Conduct, Program Testing Policy.
Also, "The Surgical Technologist as a Professional" and "Surgical Technology Survival Tips", Floorplan of Campus, Medical Requirements and Documents for Externship.
With each class I add additional documents. I have a summary sheet (2 copies) which list all the documents. I instruct the students to sign one and return to me and to keep the other summary sheet as a reference for the documents. This enables the students to have a quick reference guide and to have a folder for which to keep these important documents. I discuss every item in the packet and insure understanding. I also discuss dedication, honesty, integrity and to embrace constructive criticism for the benefit of their career goals..
A week before the first day of class is their orientation. At that time I hand out an assignment to be returned the first day of class. Since my students are entering the field of Surgical Technology and will be working in the operating room, the assignment is titled "What do you bring to the table"? There is a brief written summary and outline for the written assignment ("....the table" is the O.R. bed). This gives me added insight into each students background and, literally, what made them choose Surgical Technology as a career.
In my teaching method, I use a prospectus and syllabus in order to make the expectations of the students more clear. They syllabus allows me to put the "final" touches on those class expectations. Also, I go over expectaions of each class at the beginning of the class, and during the class, I ask how the students feel about meeting those goals and expectations.
Each block I begin by doing a full orientation to my class. I make sure the students are aware of when class starts and ends, what is expected of them to successfully complete the course and most important, the impact it has on them as a professional in our industry. THe students sign off on the expectations and then we continue on with the course outline.
A few of the techniques I use to ensure that students understand what is expected of them in my class.. I do a few simple things:
1. I visually go over the syllabus, pointing out the various required exams, homework assignments, etc... e.g. this course is a 5 week course, with three quizzes, two examinations over presented and assigned reading materials, and a research paper.
2. I go back over the requirements a second time, using a more direct means... there are three quizzes, given on specific days of the calander, two examinations given on these days, and a paper that is due no later than 3 days prior to the end of the grading term...
and then,
3. I write the list of expectations on the board for them to copy..
So I say it, they repeat it, and I write it..
and yes, it does work for the most part...
All that you say is of utmost importance! First of all, if expectations are not clear right from the start, chaos and mutiny are sure to reign. The students must also realize the consequences of not meeting the requirements or else they will surely learn fast how to take advantage. Finally, for any, and all, aspects of a class, it is SO important that you ask if the students understand, if things are clear, or if further explanation is needed. This will help you to all stay the course and not have confusion and backlash at some inopportune time.
question and answers is the best way I found to get a guege on my students
On day one, it is important to explain to the students the course standards and your expectations. This gives the students a clear path to follow as they progress through the course.
Hi Shay,
Good point about consequences. By having consequences and being consistent students will respect you as an instructor because they know you have their best interests at heart.
Gary
Hi Roger,
Good strategy for getting students involved and thinking from the very first day. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Gary
Hi Patricia,
I like your approach. It is like the old "What part of this don't you understand?" You have been clear and concise on expectations so your students know they have to focus and put forth the effort and they will be successful.
Gary
I take a fair amount of time on the first day setting my students up for success by going over all of the topics discussed in this module.
It is so important to let the student know there are consequences if expectations are not met. Showing you care and that you are willing to help them succeed it just as important. Students need to know we are not out to get them. We want them to be successful!
Making your expectations clear from the first day of class is extremely important. The syllabus should clearly state how grades will be determined, including the weight given to different aspects of the class. In doing this students should be able to plan their own course of action. Finally, you need to let students know and understand the value of attendance and participation. Explain that by attending and participating they will get more out of the class.
Have them write an essay on the first day of class explaining what their goals and past achievements are, and that it is due the following day.
My syllabus is always clear and laid out in a manner that there is no confusion regarding what is expected of the student. I tell them this is a contract between you and me.
If you do this, I will do that.
I also ask them to take the time to read it and let me know immediately if they have any questions.
Step by step review of the syb. Everything written down. I email my students a week before class, and tell them what to expect the first day.....Consistency....and if they are former students I remind them, that if they were an "A" student in my previous class, I expect the same kind of committement and performance you displayed in your previous class......when I tutor my students..I make it clear..you must let me know what you don't understand...Tutoring is not a time to reteach a class.....
The students are provided written documentation to explain what I expect of them. Throughout parts of the term I also provide physical examples of what they need to do. For example, the students have to write up 100 drug cards in Intro to Pharm and I give them examples of what these cards need to look like; I also use the board to demonstraight how they should be done.
On the first day of class, introductions are made and each student is given a syllabus and course outline. We collectively go over this material. In addition, students are given copies of campus policies, textbook and we talk about online student centers, etc. During this first meeting, the expectations are spoken about candidly. Many student want to understand why they are taking certain courses. In this setting, on the first day of class, we answer those questions. It makes the remainder of the term such easier.
A clear class outline with expectations and goals the outline includes all material that will be covered what is expected they will learn and how it will be demonstrated. A good syllabus or "contract" that clearly explains what is expected. No surprises. A pre assessment quizz is helpful as well.
