Claire,
This is the model I follow with my student assignments for the reasons you state. By sharing this addition information I remind my students of my expectations and requirements plus they feel comfortable in knowing they have everything right in front of them to successfully complete the work if they are will to put forth the effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I like to include a cover sheet with every major assignment. Having things in writing means that everyone has gotten the same message.
The cover sheet includes:
a description of the assignment
due date (sometimes a series of due dates for longer assignments; breaking down the project)
grading rubric
instructions
resources
Sometimes I even include a sample of a completed project to make it absolutely clear what I want.
Veneece,
Your method holds them accountable for the course requirements. You share with them, explain to them and then review with them what you covered. They should leave the class knowing your expectations, requirements and policies. From there on throughout the course they are going to use these guidelines to be successful in the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
On the first day of class, I review the expectations of class with my students.
It is part of the syllabus ,I make sure to ask if they have any questions or if they need any further explanations.
So by reviewing them verbally and giving them a handout -as part of the syllabus - I ensure that the students receieved and understood the expectations.
The first day is the most important class.Explain about sillabus, text and lab work. Explain clear about your expectations, and your goal.
Freda,
You make a good point because students do talk as you mention so they have an idea of what your course and you are like before coming in. As you suggest the key is to be prepared and ready to teach so your reputation is set as being professional, caring, competent and prepared.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
This os true. However, I have found that "the word of mouth" technique is the most popular. Former students' impressions go a long way. This is why an instructor has to work very hard to make sure your course syllabus, expectations and requirements are explained. Students do rely on each other.
Kristen,
This is critical for students understand. If they don't they may not be able to transition to the work place and be successful. I bring in guest speakers and tour sites related to the field so they see the "real" aspects of the career they are preparing to enter.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Todd,
This is how a syllabus should be used and as a result the students will see the value of reviewing and following the syllabus throughout the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
having an understanding of what 'really' goes on in the professional arena is important for students.
this is a great way to begin a class. students need to know what is expected and they can plan out their study techniques for success
I go through the syllabus in detail and give the students my personal expectations to them. I will then ask if there are any questions. Throughout the quarter I will reflect with the students my expectations.
Tricia,
This is a good scaffolding technique to use because it builds on each class session and sets the stage for learning opportunities for that class session. This really helps the students to connect the dots in terms of what is being taught in the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
At the beginning of every class meeting I lecture to them in summary about what was expected to be learned with the previous lecture and then outline and review the objectives for the lecture to come.
Chris,
Thank you for sharing this well developed list of how to share course expectations with students. The more answers that are given at the beginning of the class the quicker the students can focus on the learning that is going to occur in the coming sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Kristopher,
You are going to do great because you are doing the necessary planning and preparation. When your first class rolls around go into it feeling confident. Open the class with introductions and an ice breaker. While these activities are going on you will get a feel of the class and comfortable with being the learning leader. From there on it is a matter of expanding your knowledge and expertise as an educator while sharing your passion with your students about what you are teaching.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A way to make expectations clear to your students is to: Provide basic information about the course, give an overview of the course’s purpose, state the general learning goals and objectives, clarify the conceptual structure used to organize the course, describe the format or activities of the course, list the textbook, identify additional materials or equipment needed for the course, list the assignments, projects, and exams, discuss your evaluation process, list any other course requirements, discuss course policies, and provide a course calendar or schedule.
With this upcoming class being my first ever, I'm not quite sure what my expectations are at this point. I'm gathering as much information as I can from the other instructors to get a baseline that I can work from.
Dyana,
I agree because to compromise those standards is to compromise your field and the educational effort you are putting forth to help students. We need to set the bar at the level that is required for our field and then help our students meet that level.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
making expectations clear from day one is key for a succesful semester. Expectation should always be upheld and students should be held to higher standards.
