Clear Expectations
I try to tell my students what I wish to accomplish and why. I highlight the course goals in such a way that the students will be able to see the results of the course.
I've found that giving the students a copy of the rubric at the beginning of the course helps them focus on what needs to be done in order to achieve the greatest amount of success. Students then know what is expected on each assignment.
Hi Angela,
I agree! The bottom line is to prepare these students for the work place. When students can understand how things are applicable to the real world, they have a greater appreciation and take things more seriously.
Patricia
Not only do I point out my expectations up front, I also tell them how it will apply to them in the real world when they get a job. Students need to understand that is what we are preparing them for in the first place. In addition, I remind them of the expectations and highlight key terms appropriately throughout the course. They won't necessarily remember everything you said from the first day of class.
My students are continually telling me how much they need and appreciate knowing what is expected from me and my class. I am very transparent -- no surprises. At the beginning of every class I write on the board what we will be doing and checkmark them off as they are completed....when someone walks in late, they can easily see what they have missed. If someone needs to leave early, they can easily see what they are going to miss.
There are times when I have explained and re-explained (up to 5 times) and I still will have students ask the same question. I still answer the student, but I don't totally understand why they are not paying attention. I open the printer door on the printer to keep them from printing, but many of the students do not want to be there. I teach a class that many students do not want to be in. I try to explain the importance of it, I have department chairs/externship coordinators come in and speak about it, but nothing seems to help.
The course and my expectations are clear. When I ask students to repeat what I said regarding the course expectation and outlines, they do it and do it well.
Writing the goals and objectives on the board before each class helps to maintain clear and exact instructions. I provide a rubrick for any project in the class.
Hi William,
Rubrics are great for explaining assignments and how an assignment will be graded.
Patricia
This is also a huge component of time management for instructors, in my opinion. I overhear many instructors where I work constantly having to explain and re-explain(is that a word?), what is expected in an assignment, or how it will be graded.
I agree Christopher, I do the same I clearly state the objectives for the course and the time frame for deadlines. I also like to explain the broader picture, that shows the student; what all this is leading them toward.
I have found that setting clear expectations is vital! The first couple of weeks my students always test me and try to get away with everything. We have a no eating policy at my school, and one time I had a student try to eat a chicken sandwich during class. If you give the impression that you're a softie, they will try to get away with anything.
clear Expectations, lets the students know what to expect and what will be required of them.
Hi Christopher,
Students want to and need clear expectations. Nobody likes being blind sided. Our students should know what is expected of them.
Patricia
I think that this is the best way to do it to make it easy for the students because they will know what to expect.
