Hi Gloria,
I too like to ask questions after/during presenting to ensure the students understand. A simple question/answer session can tell you a lot.
Patricia
Hi Erica,
I like the idea of securing a signature. Students tend to take things more seriously whenever a signature is secured.
Patricia
I like to provide a written expectation go over it with them, have them sign it. I keep a copy and provide them with a copy to refer back to.
Ususally I will go over the syllabus in detail with the students, explain what we are trying to accomploish in the class and then I will point out all of the actual requirements (homework, readings, and minimum grade) so that the studnet knows exactly what is being expected and what they will need to pass the class and lean the information.
One way that I make the course requirements clear for students is to ask questions after I have reviewed the material. Another way is to give out a pop quiz over the material I've covered to check for understanding.
As a classroom manager I take responsibility for the communication related to the course. On Day 1 of the syllabus, after my introduction, I go over, in detail, the course requirements. We go over the daily course work, all examinations and assessments and feedback. Throughout the course they are tested and feedback is given on a rubric. The rubric provides a clear explanation of the examination requirements. This enables the student to understand and learn from the experience. Practicing all of these methods, I am hopeful this provides a clear understanding of the course requirements.
Thanks Roger, I like the color coding idea you added! I think I'll do the same!
I review the course requirements in detail on the very first day. At the beginning of each week I go over what was done the week before and what is expected for the week ahead. This tends to keep the students on track and allows for an opportunity for discussion or questions.
Supply them with a syllabus and start each class with what will be covered and required of them
During the first class I go over the schedule and the syllabus. Inevitably I have students show up for class unaware of the exam or the chapters we are covering.
In the beginning of each class and at the end I go over the schedule. I think I may pick some of these forgetful students to go over the next week's schedule at the end of each class.
I may also begin sending an email to each student that outlines the weeks schedule.
However, at some point the student must take responsibility for their behavior. I'm not sure how to get that through to them.
Roger
I type out a schedule that includes: 1). date of class; 2). topic to be lecutured or covered; 3). Assignment & readings; 4. quiz/exam; 5). homework due dates. Then we go over each date at the begging of class. Leaving time for clairfication and quesitons.
Hi Roger,
We need to teach our students how to be organized, how to meet deadlines, and how to be held accountable. The calendar will certainly help with these lessons.
Patricia
I usually supplement the syllabus with a PowerPoint presentation that outlines the course requirements, attendance, late assignments, my expectations, etc. In addition, I have them sign an acknowledgment that they were given a copy of the information presented. I also post the assigned homework and any upcoming projects due on the board during each class.
Hi Sharon,
Calendars work really well. Calendars really help your unorganized students become better organized.
Patricia
Sharon I like the idea of a calendar. I've not done this previously but it's a very good idea. I may even color code the exams in green or whatever and the projects in red.
Roger
I attach a separate sheet of assignment due dates and chapters covered to the syllabus. Also at the beginning of each class I write on the board what will be covered during the class. The last part of my board list is what will be covered and what is due next week. I go over this information at the beginning and end of each class.
Roger
I use a syllabus and an outline of each project we will be doing during the course. I am going to add a calendar with due dates for projects and tests to my handouts on the first day of class.
Hi Marc,
I feel the same way. I have been told that I am too reminding. I feel students should be reminded because they are juggling a lot in life, but I also let them know to keep a daily calendar and look at each day at least a day ahead.
Patricia
Hi Wendy,
One of your best resources as an instructor is to pair with a seasoned instructor. I team new instructors with mentors so that the process is easier for the new instructor. An experienced instructor can shed light on many things.
Patricia
Thank you...I am continuously trying to improve especially from my coworkers who have been teaching for 20-30 years! They are the ones who know the ins and outs with some of our students, so I like to listen to their stories and develop tools they use which fit into my classroom style.
