I try to make sure in the beginning that upon reading the course requirements, going over policies and procedures, that I re-visit my expectations as they are listed in not only the preprinted syllabus, but the students receive an additional handout/calendar with the expectations and due dates affixed to it so there isn't any confusion. I poll the students for any questions, and answer accordingly.
LT
Student's can relate to instructor who make the path clear, by giving students a clear pathway, such as a Assignment sheet give them a clear view of what is needed for the course.
Pamela,
Students no matter their ages seem to have a problem with listening. So repetition of due dates and project specifics is needed. They need to develop the ability to listen because once they are in the workplace they are going to have to listen and get it right the first time while meeting due dates or they aren't going to be working there for long.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
That is a very good idea, I have had the same problem with some of my students. I have gone over my expectations with them, then done a Q and A on the subject to check their understanding, and then at times when they are not seeming to get it, I put it in writing, and start the process over, going over the printed copy with them. This seems to help the most, because they have something they can go back over and check again.
MARISSA,
Repetition is a powerful learning tool because it trains both the mind and body. Through review the content and/or skills become a part of the working memory that can be called upon as needed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Tawnya,
This is critical because if they don't they won't know at what level they are going to be evaluated nor what the expectations are.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
My main techniques are reviewing, writing short notes on the board, and distributing handouts. When I was learning to play the keyboard, my music teacher, who was an old man, always spoke about the importance of 'constant review.' He would always say that 'constant review is the price of success.'Every practice session, I would have to review and play chords and scales. I use this same technique with my students. I review constantly.
it is important for your students to know what you expect from them..That way they can do their best
Jessica,
A grading rubric is such a great tool to use as it reduces student question and frustration. They can see exactly how they will be graded and where points have been earned and lost. This helps them to see how they can be successful in the course and with their projects.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Every project I assign has a detailed direction sheet with how I will evaluate the material. I find students ask less questions because they understand the project. After assigning it, I give them about two weeks to see if they have any questions now that they have started to work on the project sections.
Dr. Antonia,
One way is to have the students do a one minute paper on a topic that you want to see if they have retained content about. Have them write for 60 seconds about what they have learned, what they know, or what surprised them most about what has been covered. The 60 second time limit keeps it short in terms of class time and short in terms of student writing so they don't feel overwhelmed by having to answer with a major essay.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I never thought of pop quizzes. But how can you incorporate them when you have so much material to cover? We have 3 chapters to cover per week. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks in advance
Erica,
Keep your passion for the field and excitement about sharing and teaching will be good to you. You are leaving a legacy through your sharing.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I really appreciate this answer! I am also a new instructor and I enjoy teaching.
Thank you
John,
I commend you for this effort. You need to be clear and concise in your sharing of information with your students. If you do such then their frustration levels will be reduced and their satisfaction will increase.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I try and be as clear and concise as possibile from the first day of class as to my expectations. This entails writing up a complete syllabus as well as being verbally acute. I also ask what their expectations are for the course so that there can be a dialogue.
Covering the syllabus along with classroom and attendance expectations. This builds structure and discipline in the classroom from day one. I remember my students always had the impression that I was mean but by the end of the course they never wanted to leave or requested to have me as an instructor again the next term.
I personally use a syllabus and writing lots of notes on the board for them.
Communicating the goals, objectives and expectations clearly, specially at the beginning of the course is essential. I encourage the students to ask questions to ensure they understand the expectations. The syllabus content reinforces the course expectations.
explain everything at a level that everyone in the class can understand so that there are not any grey areas.
