Laying down the law
It's imparative to lay all of your cards on the table so that your students have a better understaning of your goals and expectations for them.
It is important to let students know where you stand. I do this with assignment due dates and expectations. Anything less isn't fair to them.
When your students know and understand what the instructor requires from the very beginning, it makes the class better as a whole. But, to add to this, the instructor MUST inforce every rule every time.
I really thank everyone for their imput on this forum, I have been a softy in the past because I will have students that play the shy card to much and will slip through. But having these messages I feel more able to go in and ask for some thing from my students and stand firm until, it is met.
Agreed. People do better when expectations are clear from the beginning.
I'm still amazed at the things that I miss in the expectations. I just recently missed stating what would happen if they missed a presentation....I assumed they wouldn't miss one! I will remember for next time.
Hi Jeff,
It really does reduce most class management issues. Clear expectations translate into behavior that is acceptable within the class. This also helps the students to develop social skills that will benefit them when they are out working.
Gary
I agree with your approach. If you don't make your expectations clear from the beginning, it is hard to go back and lay down ground rules. It does not have to be harsh or mean spirited, but it does have to be clear and firm. It's the initial line in the sand...
Hi Jeff,
Good point. Many instructors don't want to be seen as being too tough on students so they don't set the required tone for the class. A clear firm set of rules will greatly reduce the management issues related to the class.
Gary
I think this is an area that is neglected far too often. This does not have to be an oppressive interaction. Rather, if done clearly, can impress upon student that the expectations and rules will be enforced. When these areas are unexpressed and then enforced trouble quickly follows because students will quickly assume that they are being unfairly treated.
