I utilize the syllabus including a class by class outline regarding what will be covered that day and what is due.
In addition, I hand out a seperate document titled additional course instructions which gives a week by week summary of what is due. Included in the additional course instructions are tips for completing each assignment along with the requirements.
This especially helps when students miss the first day, instead of going through one by one with those that missed, their assignment is to read and report back on the course syllabus as well as the additional course instructions.
Making course requirements clear for students is so important. I utilize the syllabi of the school that is very well laid out. In addition to that I also offer my students a rubric that breaks each piece of the grading down, explaining in greater detail what is expected of them. On the first day of class we go over this all together and I allow ample time for questions and answers. Throughtout the term I speak with each student indivdually abou their progress in the course, where they feel they need more improvement and help and we discuss their grade and what they can do to imporove it if necessary.
On my first day of class, I take the time to tell the students why this class will benefit them and what they learn from it. Basically, after taking the class, they will be able to walk into the workplace ready to work. Then, I walk through the syllabus and explain the course in detail, and walk through the calendar list of assignments, deadlines and expectations.
Hi Brenda,
Day 1 is crucial to establishing rules, policies, and procedures. Students need to know exactly what is expected of them up front so that there are no surprises.
Patricia Scales
On day one as we go through the syllabus we discuss the rules,expectations,and each required item . I inform them what is expected how they can achieve it and always ask if they do not understand please let me know so we can clarify it.
Hi Meghan,
Awesome ways of making sure your students know exactly what is required of them. You did not leave any stone unturned!
Patricia Scales
Hi Joseph,
You do a fine job of ensuring course requirements are made clear!
Patricia Scales
When joining a new class I have a brief PowerPoint to introduce myself and my expectations. I created a survival guide with examples of Essay formats, daily routines and classroom policies. I try to keep it clear but brief. I also note professional values I feel are important: problem solving, respectful communication, self-reliance, attitude and dependability. It has been helpful to play a quick “get to know you†ice breaker to build rapport and community in the classroom.
Each week I create a page of plans detailing due dates, and activities to keep them on track. There is also an online calendar available for students to check due dates and download important documents like the syllabus or research assignment if needed. These details at the beginning seem to have helped smooth the transition.
The topics for the course are outlined on the board as well as discussed at the beginning of class. It is also reiterated through out the lesson on how it related to the course objectives.
Hi Peggy,
Super work of clarity of course requirements! Communication is key!
Patricia Scales
Hi Syed,
Awesome! You go above and beyond to ensure course clarity is provided to your students. Keep up the great art of being an effective instructor.
Patricia Scales
This is definitely something that I go over the first day of class and try to address any questions at that time. On a daily or weekly basis I will give reminders or updates of what is due and what we are lecturing on by writing it on the white board.
Even though I teach a ground class, I maintain all information about the class on the portal as well. During class I discuss with the students what they are required to do and inform them that the same information is also available on the portal if they need to check. I also follow that up with an email to everyone in class asking them to go on the portal for the assignments and lecture that have been posted.
I love this idea, I'm going to implement it. Actually, my son's preschool teacher would do this for the PARENTS, so that we all knew what was going on, coming up, party days, etc. Each month's calendar was a different color paper, that way they would instantly recognize that it was a different month.
Hi Linda,
Believe it or not, most students want structure, and they want the instructor to set the standards high. I have learned over the years that even adult learners will take advantage of you if you do not manage firmly.
Patricia Scales
After teaching my first 6 week course I realized I have to set firmer goals and boundaries for my students. The first day of the following term I handed out and reviewed my "Class Expectations" which included policy about dress code, tardiness, assignments etc. I found that the students actually appreciated the information and accepted it with very little fuss.
I have them actually sign a copy of the course requirements and they receive a copy of that signed document. It is amassing when you ask people to sign something how it increases the attention to the details. Also on the campus portal I post weekly reminders of up coming deadlines. In the extreme case, I call the student on their cell phones.
Hi Eileen,
Wow, you are so thorough with making course requirements clear. You students should really appreciate your thoroughness!!
Patricia Scales
On first day of class I go over the syllabi step by step... each chapter and little short sentences discribing the chapter. What will our goals be for each chapter.
Day to day when I teach I use the white board and say if I am lecturing what chapter...
The lab problems they will be doing for the chapter and the Homework assignment. When Homework is due... the due date.
If there is a test coming up I will write on the Whiteboard. I also use Ecampus which has a calnedar to put up assignements and power points that students can downlaod and review before class or after class. This also helps them study for the test. I also upload the assignments too.
Thanks eileen szydlowski
Hi Jackie,
I concur! Students who know their material have a higher level of confidence. Preparation is the key to success.
Patricia Scales
