I give my students 2 short quizzes. One accesses their knpowledge of the subject matter. The other accesses their interest in the field of study.
The methods that I use to make sure that my students understand what I expect of them is to make sure on that first day when I am going over the rules and I reenforce the expectations of my class a couple different times by discussing and writting it then coming and discussing throughout the class.
I try to make my expectations of the class very clear through written communication on the syllabus and through verbal communication in the classroom. I also will ask the class questions to demonstrate that they received the proper information and understand it.
I quicly share the class expectations with the students. Then I have the students do an activity. Each group covers expectation. They must state the expectation in student terms, give examples of what it means and does not mean, come up with what they believe would be a resonable consequence for not following the expectation, and do a quick skit putting the expecation into action. After each skit the students can ask questions. We do this for all the course expectations. Lastly, each students signs the classroom expectations sign saying that they agree to abide by it.
Michelle,
These questions can serve as a discussion starter plus help in getting the students engaged in the content at a much higher level. So give them a try, I think you will like the results you get.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I think that I would like to start giving pop questions also. I believe it ill help me know as a new teacher how much learning is or is not occuring. Sometimes as a new teacher its hard to tell if its my delivery or a student not doing the work.
Michele,
You make a good point about how students need to find their place and role in a class. They need to see they are valued for their contributions and effort.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Just like a first impression, on the first day of class I informed my students of what I expect of them as far as the class goes and also ask them what do they expect of me as a instructor. Now they feel like they are not just students in the class,but of the class.
LaShonda,
So true. By taking this approach you have given the students a foundation upon which to build throughout the course and everyone knows where the course is going.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
When expectations are clearly stated, explained and delivered in a positive way, it makes it easier for them to be applied and understood.
I love to go over expectations with my students in a group setting. We all get together and prior to me laying out my expectations, I ask them what they expect of me.We do something similar to a contract and, as I share my expectations with them, I relate them to what they have in mind for me.
I use several methods. Verbal feedback - I ask them one thing they have learned and how they intend to apply the information to their practice. Quiz/Exam - formal evaluation. Case studies to apply their new knowledge to real life scenarios.
I make my expectations clear to my students by working with them in small groups and then speaking to each student individually.
I find that having a detailed class outline that is straight forward and easily understood is the best technique.
Tiffany,
This is something that I do as well. I give a one page handout reinforcing what is in the syllabus in terms of expectations. This way they have a concise and clear set of information that should direct them throughout the course.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I try to make my own handouts stating my obligations from the student to the instructor
Jamie,
This is so important so you will have an idea of the content retention and application that is occurring.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Jorge,
Great way to start a class off. I am sure this method helps to get the students excited about what is going to occur in the coming class sessions.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I always ask questions to make sure what they are learning they are also understanding.
I think a good opener is too play some motivational music in the beginning of class. This immediately grabs the attention of the students and it breaks the ice. Once you have captured their attention they will be more likely to be involved.
At this point your introduction and expectations will have a bigger impact because you have already made them know that you have a flexible, open-ended teaching style, but serious about the subject at hand.
Also, using examples of past classes may give your students an idea of your expectations and allow them to get a glimpse of your grading style and set boundaries of what is tolerated in your class.
