I do just as suggested to do as far as the syllbi and a calander to go with it to show times when homework and tests and projects are due. I have noticed that this helps for the students to clearly get it and no questions on when test are an due dates...... its just spelled out for them....
I demostrait every project the student has to do for my class so they can see how it is done and the proper way to do it.
Making the course syllabus known on the first day is key to help them know the requirements for the rest of the course. Also having them highlight key points as far as deductions for missed class time and class assignments.
Hi Alethea,
Students expect to find out the requirements, expectations, rules, policies, and procedures on Day 1. It is best to let students know from the beginning how serious the course is and you are.
Patricia Scales
I slowly review the course syllabus on the first day of class. I suggest to the students to highlight important dates, for example the dates of projects due and test dates. The syllabus covers Instructor biography, course information/policies and assignment schedules which are in bold type. I explain that all the information for the course is in the syllabus and I refer to pages and dates during the week.
Hi Karla,
The syllabus is definitely the point that provides great clarity about course requirements.
Patricia Scales
The course syllabus is key, but also taking the time to review it in class is important. I also have the students sign an acknowledgment that they have received and understand the course requirements.
I might be enabling my students by doing this but I also reiterate each time we have a quiz or test how much it will count towards their final grade.
Sherri
Initially by giving them a written list of requirements and discussing all the points possible when the assignment is first given. Also by reminding them, as we move on, what phase of the project they ought to be completing (To keep on track with making the due date.) and allowing some class time for answering questions about major assignments periodically lets everyone receive answers they may not have realized they needed.
Kathy
Thoroughly review the syllabus with the students and making sure main points are highlighted. Also by asking the students questions as it relates to the course requiremtns and the responses will indicate clear understanding.
I uyse our on line system to post notes & class material so that the students have access to it at home before & after class as well as verbaly going over it in class
Hi Charles,
Students tend to enjoy PowerPoint presentations. I like to add various effects, sound, pictures, etc. to my presentations to jazz them up some.
Patricia Scales
Agreed you must allow students the oppertunity to ask questions and feel involved
I have found my student resond well to powerpoint presentations, outlining the course and its a way to have a little fun with them
I go over the syllabus at the beginning of each course and I review the syllabus at least once a week. I only review what we are covering that week and what assignments are due the next week. It gives them a reminder that "I have a paper due next week." Near the end of the course, before the final exam, I go over the entire syllabus in my exam review. At that time I can clear up any "late" assignments and let them know if there is any additional time to get assignments completed. By doing this, there are fewer questions and students do not have to wonder if I am going to accept late assignments.
Hi Naomi,
I think it is only fair to give students reminders. Some instructors do not believe in reminding their students; they feel as though students should be mature enough to remember deadlines after being told because in the real world they are not going to have reminders.
Patricia Scales
Making course requirements clear for students is one of the most important requirements to have a successful class. If it wasn't for course requirements and the syllabus, when I was a student I would have been lost and wouldn't be able to get assignments in on time. As teacher now I make my syllabus avaliable to my students by the first day of class and highlight and bold the important items and requirements that I want them to know and I also verbalize the requirements the first few lectures/class sessions. Reminders are needed througout the course due to misplaced syllabuses.
Hi Jill,
Wow, you give double coverage, thorough syallbus/brief syllabus along with an additional handout. You really go above and beyond for your students. I fully understand why your students are so appreciative. You want to see them succeed.
Patricia Scales
In addtion to the primary syllabus provided to the students at the beginning of the course, a more brief syllabus type handout is provided to the students at the end of each week. This handout provides information on what will be happening each day during the following week, when the exam will be given and specifics on the homework assigned. Any information required for the class but not contained in the textbooks or upcoming power point presentations is also attached to this document. The students appreciate this information as it lets them know what to expect and assists with fitting school into their off campus activities.
Hi Rudolph,
Students love it when we provide them with great clarity to ensure course requirements are clear. The syllabus is a great tool to utilize to document clear course requirements.
Patricia Scales
I use a variety of methods in attempting to make the course requirements clear for the students. Typically I'll being by outlining in clear terms all course requirements and acknowledging the existence of assessment as a means of ascertaining progress to meet these requirements. Also, I'll incorporate course requirements in as many class documentations as possible. Documentations such as Course Outlines and class syllabus.
