To ensure students understand the expections of them, I review the syllabus in detail, what areas I plan to focus on, what they will be graded on and the point system I will be using.
I hand out a class syllabus at the beginning of each module. Along with the syllabus, I have my own set of class rules. I explain in detail about the course, and what is expected of my sudents. I encourage all students to ask questions and share their opinions.
Cheryl
I think this technique also provides the students with sense of security knowing that you've got everything planned out and you're not playing it by ear.
I agree, the answer will be right in front of them so they can't reply back that they were never informed or they never knew. This is a helpful way to not only back you up as the professor but also provide your dtudents with teh knowledge they need to prepare for the class itself.
I often go over the expectations then create an assignment or activity which includes the expectations to further enhances their grasp.
I set the expectations up front, and tell them I run my classroom like a business. If you are going to be late, you should call me before I call you, etc.
I have a class overview PowerPoint and a written paper with expectations. I include how I grade. I go over the written sheet aloud with the students and ask if there are any questions. One thing I include in the expectations is that students are accountable for their learning and their grades. When I am done explaining my expectations, I tell them that the reason I give them those details is because I want them to succeed.
I ask them to repeat criteria, and why they think my assesment tool is valuable. I usually start a group discussion about what the industry application is to the assignment and skills attained in the assignment.
The first day of class I am sure to give out a syllabus and make sure we understand it and read through it together. I always make sure I give them important due dates and test dates so they know what to expect. I often remind them of the due dates through out the week. Students really value when the instructor is organized.
Tom,
Good strategy. This follow up is what reinforces to the students that you care about their success both in the course and in their careers.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I tell the students on my first day what expectations I have from them for the length of the class. Furthermore, I follow that up with consistent reinforcement throughout the course based on my expectations.
Joel,
Good strategy. This gets their questions answered and helps them get settled into the course. Not to mention reducing their stress levels.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I ALWAYS GIVE TO THE STUDENTS THE COURSE OUTLINE , AND I ASK FOR OPINIONS, IF THERE IS SOMETHING NOT CLEAR ABOUT THE ASSIGNMENTS , OR THE EVALUATIONS .
I am finding that my students love a "task list" that is pulled from all of the wording and explanations that they can go back to if they need to do so.
Martha Moore
Marilyn,
Good point and one I follow myself. Knowing that I am organized and have planned out my instruction lets me relax and really enjoy my teaching and the students so much more.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Mapping out the weeks ahead takes a little time from me as the Instructor, but provides a great deal of security for my adult learners. As adults our lives are filled with multiple responsibilities, and knowing in advance when an assignment is due or when a test is scheduled provides a good road map. In the end the advance work on my part also relieves me of the stress of uncertainty that comes with interruptions to my best laid plans.
By making your expectations clear it save you and the students from confussion later
A method that I use to help me understand if the students are retaining the information are open discussions at the end of lectures, group activities with rotating speakers, quizzes, and by having each student summarize what they got from each lecture. One thing I've noticed is that you must be prepared for change. Powerpoints everyday will get them to loose their focus and drive.
I introduce myself, go over course expectations, course outlines, policies and procedures for classroom and then I ask them what they expect to get out of the class.
