I agree that written explanations are important. Many students will miss class and possibly not hear your explanations. We always have our students sign a paper stating that they have reviewed and understand the syllabus. This would also work for any expectations in the class or addendums to the syllabus.
I feel that rubrics are a great way to create clear expectations for all students. For extensive assignments, I may also include a sample of an A assignment. This way they know what they are striving towards.
We also review the syllabus in depth and complete a scavenger hunt to ensure that they understand the expectations of the course.
By explaining very clear from day one the course assignments, how and when should be presented, and to be proactive before any due date.
As instructors, student success should be the number one priority. To ensure students are clear about of expectations, I give all assignments, due dates, and rubics up front. Students should not have to guess what an A assignment looks like.
Dr. Meers,
The class only online so I have to do the best possible to set the tone and make sure students are set up for success at the outset. All students don’t attend the first day and the lecture “Live Chat†is recorded and archived for the whole class to access at their leisure.
Hi Susan,
I like your approach. You make it clear for them so they can't come back on you and say they were never informed. Also you have a way of keeping in contact with them if needed. This helps to keep them engaged and focused on the course.
Gary
Hi Denice,
Good way to reduce misunderstandings and to create a common knowledge base for the students on the course requirements. This enables you to move the course forward in a efficient manner.
Gary
Expalin the syllabus subjects clearly and the class expectation as by example that they should be prepared on the daily subjects before class, that way they will participate easier on the daily lectures and demos.
The first day of class I hand out a paper that has "the rules" of the class. They only have 3 days to make up test or it is a 0, same with homework. It goes over all the expectations- if they are absent, uniforms must be worn, etc. I also have the students sign a paper that has their name and number on it that I keep in my folder so if I need to get in touch with them I have a current #, on that sheet also has a spot for them to check that they received the class policy. So if anything ever comes up down the road and they say they didnt know I can pull that out and say you received a copy of the policy. They cant argue that!
On the first day of class I hand out a master class outline including : the syllabus, uniform policy, grading policy, culinarian's code, attendance policy, honesty, etc. We go over each page together and I ask if there are any questions.
Hi Jennifer,
This is a good way to make sure that all the details of the course and professional expectations are covered. There is accountability with the signing of the paper saying they have received the material and have had it explained to them.
Gary
I give out a class syllabus and course outline. I also give out Professionalims standards expected of each student through out the course. I read each outloud and then have every student sign a paper stating that this was done.
Hi Renetta,
I think this is a great way to get an online course off to a good start. It gives the students the big picture of the what they are going to experience in the course including the classroom even if it is only online. Good way to give them a sense of community so they will be ready to interact with their peers.
Gary
I teach in an online environment and my first day of class consists of a virtual tour of the classroom and online campus. This is accomplished by the sharing my desktop. I begin by introducing myself to the students followed by giving an overview of the class. I move from there to the Course Home page that includes any helpful instructor files, a welcome letter and course expectations document. I move from there to the syllabus. I go through the welcome letter, course expectations an syllabus in great detail. After that I demonstrate how to find all areas of the classroom, the virtual library and tech support. I include a forum in the discussion area for students to introduce themselves to one another. After the tour I allow for Q and A.
Hi Joseph,
You can't put the message out there too much for students. Your method of reinforcement is a good way to keep them on schedule and knowledgeable about all that is going to occur.
Gary
In addition to the sylabus, I list it at the beginning of each class session and briefly reinforce orally.
Hi Peg,
You are very welcome. I wish you much teaching success.
Gary
Gary, I want to thank you for this class. I really enjoyed it and look forward to more of the classes in Max Knowledge. Peg Rapai
Hi Peggy,
I like it. You are helping them to see that you understand where they are coming from because you have been there. I am sure this really helps them to understand that you want them to be successful if they will put forth the effort.
Gary
Hi Mark,
Good idea and one that really gets to class off to a good start while helping the students get settled into the course. This builds a sound supportive base from the very beginning of the course plus you know what the students know about the syllabus.
Gary
