I will hand out a class addendum with clear expectations and requirements.
I agree with setting the boundaries from the beginning. Expectations should be written and followed. It is much easier for everyone when we have clear directions to meet the goals of the class.
I do the same thing. I cover the syllabus very thoroughtly and then I even have the students sign a copy of it showing that they understand and have read the syllabus.
I go through the syllabus thoroughly and answer any questions the students have. I also reiterate when and how I am available for any questions or concerns they may have at a later date.
I would go through the Syllabus week by week and clarify any doubts or questions they have so that everybody is at the same page and understand what my expectations are.
I typically deveop detail-oriented assignment sheets and grade rubrics.
Setting the expectation high ensure the the student will know it will be safe to ask questions and know tha there are standard they must follow. High expectation means much is required to achieve a level of competence.
On day one set the ground rules to be followed and the expectattion the class. Stress the policies reguarding completion of goal and the consequences of not following the rules.
Have them repeat and explain back the expectations while giving examples.
The course syllabus is the best document to ensure that the students have all of the criteria of what is expected of them from the beginning. I require their signature stating that they understand all the information covered in the syllabus, and usually spend about an hour and a half to two hours discussing the requirements and providing clarification the first day of class.
I give them written explanations of the assignments and then answer any questions they may have about them.
I believe it also sets the precedence that cheating and poor attitudes have no place in my classroom.We,as adults,need to take responsibility for our education.
Hi Lubna,
Simple ground rules like this sets the tone for the class. Yes, the students are preparing to enter their chosen career area so they need to reflect the skills it takes to be successful in that career. These soft skills are critical for student success.
Gary
What I do is when I introduce myself in the first class and after the student's introduction session, I tell them that I understand that coming back to school was a difficult choice for most of them. They are all adults and I expect them to behave like one. I also tell them that treat this classroom as their work place, fellow students as their co-workers and the instructor as their supervisor. Be present everyday and complete your assignments on time just as they would do if they were working. This gives them a clear signal that what the expectations of the instructor are and then they try to fulfill those expectations.
Hi Ngwe,
What are some of the strategies you use to identify if the students understand what you have just covered?
Thanks in advance for your input on this.
Gary
see if any students not understand, or have them repeat what the teacher said so that making sure they understand. have students exchange information in the class to clarify
I strive to make my expectation clear by giving thorough instructions and example of what I expect in a project/paper/etc. By giving examples, I find that students understand my expectations and feel more comfortable with the project at hand.
Hi Stacy,
Way to go in establishing the base of understanding for your students. By researching and writing about academic integrity you are showing them it is important to you, the course and their success in the class. Well done.
Gary
I agree. I think one great way to make expectations clear is to make them part of the syllabus. Also, your verbal delivery about these expectations while going over the syllabus on the first day is important. Then, I think if you follow-through on expectations it will be clear.
I always start my first class off by assigning the student to research the term "Academic integrity." They have to return their findings to me on the next class meeting. We then as a class discuss the topic. I feel this sets the expectation I have of them, the student, and my commitment to each student.
