Getting the students to buy into the subject
By telling the students how they will use the information they will learn in the class the student will have a purpose for learning the material. The student will know how this information will help them earn more money in order to give their families a better way of life. By giving purpose for learning the student will respond.
Hi Crystal,
A syllabus acts as a daily plan to follow as well. We all can use a written daily plan to follow to make the best use of our time.
Patricia
I do agree that most students will not have to write a syllabus in their lifetime. I do think that a syllabus could be transferred into a students everyday life. A syllabus is somewhat of a schedule of events and important dates (every student, person can use one of these).
I am also finding that students do not fully understand the need to take certain classes. They do not see how English or Math relates to their chosen career field. I find myself explaining that the basic concepts of English and Math etc. are needed for any career.
Hi Colin,
A syllabus is important to students because it spells out course requirements, rules, policies, procedures, etc. It can even have due dates indicated on it.
Patricia
I find getting them to see the monetary value their choice in education will reward them in the long term. When I show them how all the classes intermingle into the same desired outcome, I see good feedback and results.
I am aided in this area by teaching in a vocational setting with very clear goals and standards by which students (and professionals) are judged. However, course content, especially syllabi, still need to be presented accurately and serve effectively as guides for satudents throughout the course. Even though my students will likely never need to produce a document such as a syllabus, their understanding of how one functions and what it means to their learning is still highly relevant.
