Amy,
I like this strategy as well. This gives order and sequence to the students as they get settled into a new course and are trying to learn what the expectations are.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
One the first day of class I review with the class what the course objectives are and how they are directly related to the students professional success. Next I will discuss the study requirments for the class and provide a study outline each week to prepare them for the next exam. I discuss the methods of instruction and what I expect from the students in the way of class participation. Standards of grading are reviewed and specfics of what my expectations as an intrucror are reviewed.
I started giving students a quiz on the syllabus. I wanted to make sure they understood what I expected of them. So far, I believe it works well.
I believe that you should build on what is expected from them through all of the first class. If you give the syllabus which reviews the course and then go over what is expected that erinforces the expectation. While you are giving study and test taking hints you again review why this is so important it continues to build on what your expectations are. Finally as you go over the grading and how the course is going to be conducted it will futher reinforce your expectations. You are setting the student up to succeed because you are giving them the tools to succeed during the first class.
Don,
Good points about how and what to share about yourself as well as what you want to learn from your students as you start a new class. This exchange of information has a lot to do with how the course will proceed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Making my expectations clear, my approach from the start would be to disseminate information about myself believe this will allow the students to know who I am as a person and instructor. I would also include background information about my academics as well as personal information. I believe this process will allow the students to see who I am and the principles I stand for. In conclusion I believe the students will understand my expectations as an instructor and why I expect the same from them as my previous instructors expected from me. I belive also it is important to learn about my students as well, so my expectations do not exceed the student capabilities.
Don
Darrold,
This is a good way of scaffolding learning. Each step is building on the previous step and you are checking for understanding along the way.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
After announcing my expectations I repeat and ask for feedback after each one.
Garry,
Good way to get the students settled into the course and feeling comfortable with how the course is going to be conducted. They can get their questions answered right up front and then prepare themselves for the course to come.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Christopher,
This approach greatly enhances the relevance and application aspects of learning. This increases the ROI of the course for each student.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
