I am very new at this. I seem to be having a problem in this area. I am having to request the same things over and over again. Do you have any suggestions on how to change this?
Sacha,
Clear and concise instructions about course expectations do a lot to relive fear and reduce frustration. Good way to start a course and get everyone on the same page.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
During my overview and course introduction I cover my expectations clearly. I try to answer all questions that students may have, but most of all I stay consistant.
Leeann,
Good way to get everyone on the same page and understanding how the course is going to operate. They need to have a clear picture of what the expectations are for success in the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first day, I start by going over the class/campus rules and syllabus. I then have a Q and A time to make sure everyone understands. I then finish by having everyone sign on the signature page and so that I can put it in their file.
Maria,
Right you are. They need to know from the beginning the course requirements, expectations and policies. By having this information confusion and frustration is reduced.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The best thing for me so far is straight forward.Telling them exactly what I expect individually.
Tammy,
These logistical things need to be shared the first day just as you are doing. This way there will be no misunderstanding about being on time, cell phone use, and absences. With these items out of the way you can focus on what the requirements are for the course and how the students can be successful in the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
DAVID E,
This is such a powerful. Students often ask "What do I have to do to pass this course?" I hate that question because it is not about what I require to pass but what skill sets and knowledge they get to advance their career development that matters. Your last sentence really captures what they need to internalize. It is their future at stake not what the professor requires.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
DAVID E,
Good way to get a read on the class. This way you can customize your instruction and provide support as needed. The result will be a win win for everyone.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first day of class when going over the syllabi. I let my students know then what I expect of them then. Absenteeism, cleaning up after themselves, restocking the lab ect. I tell them this is what would be expected of them at there job, so I expect them to treat there class like being at work.
I thank you for the suggestion of giving out a one page summary of the grading rubric, due dates, and required projects! I especially like that its printed on colored paper so that it will standout! Great idea!!
Yes, I agree with helping them see the ROI. It is so important to point out and extensively express how critical it is for them to excel. Their very future depends on accomplishing the course with excellent grades. When this criteria is made aware to them, I believe their enthusiasm and willingness to participate in class discussions and projects is increased ten-fold! I have always made the simple comment: You're only cheating yourself and your goals!
We have a conversation about expectations after our initial initial introductions. During introductions I ask each student why they are in this class and depending on their answer I ask what they expect to receive from this course. We discuss their goals and how they wish to achieve these goals with the help of this course. I encourage them to set their own goals thereby assisting me in setting my expectations from them.
Melannie,
As you know college students seem to have selective memories when it comes to due dates, quizzes and projects. You method of reminding them is good because you keep the upcoming requirements in front of them on a regular basis.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have my expectations clearly listed in my syllabus, which I hand out to all the students and review the first day of class. I explain exactly what I expect for homework, when I expect it, and if I take it late, what percentage will be deducted for it to be late. I explain professionalism, attendance, quizzes, and how I expect them to act in class.
I stress professionalism clearly and even show them daily how their professionalism affects their grade, so they can see what they should be doing.
I also use frequent announcements on portal (which I tell them I will do on the first day) to stress key points and keep everyone informed with what we did in class. I don't do them daily, but I will every week or twice a week, based on the information they need. It helps keep them focused on what needs to be done.
Alison,
Good plan because most college students have selective memories when it comes to due dates and project requirements. By repeating the requirements and reminding them of deadlines they will keep on target to get everything in as needed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I always makes sure at the start of each day that students know what is due, and what they will be working on. I also remind them what will be due in the future.
Akuoma,
So important because students have a tendency to "forget" deadlines and projects at times throughout the course. The more reinforcement of those deadlines you can make the greater adherence there will be to those requirements.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Stephen,
This is a good idea because this way everyone has heard and repeated the expectations. Students have a real ability to "forget" deadlines and expectations. So the more you can instill in their minds the course requirements the better.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
