Ive tryed open forums I explain what the course requirments are then open the floor for Q&A looking for student input to help make the class better
I will remind students when due dates are getting close, but not overly much. I also think that they should carry some of the responsibility of keeping track of when things are due.
Thanks! I think they do appreciate it, and it also backs me up when someone has questions regarding their grade due to lateness or some other reason.
Hi Jodi,
I like the addendum. You certainly go the extra mile to make sure your students are clear on requirements. I am sure your students appreciate your thoroughness.
Patricia
I not only use the master syllabus for the course, but also have an addendum that more clearly states the assignments, quizzes, tests, projects, etc. and the dates they are due. Also on the addendum I have how those different items are weighted into the final grade and any additional policies I have in the class regarding late assignments, absences, etc.
Hi Don,
It appears you do a thorough job covering course requirements. I like the idea of putting them in writing and passing them out on the first day. My course requirements are indicated on the syllabus.
Patricia
I pass them out in writing on the first day of class. I then explain, give examples and ask for questions.
I discuss with students how the course requirements can be used in their particular career choice.
Hi TJ,
Of course, the syllabus is a great place to start with making course requirements clear. I make sure my students are reminded of the course requirements throughout the entire grading period. We are in place to help our students succeed.
Patricia
Hi TJ,
The computer is a very engaging teaching tool. Students get excited whenever they are allowed to use the computer.
Patricia
Not only do I distribute the course syllabus, but I also give the students a copy of the course objectives on a separate piece of paper. I then take the time to go over each handout individually and make it a point to illustrate how the objectives will help them meet the course requirements.
I usually put on my "mean mask" on the first day and outline what is expected of them in black and white, explaining that there is very little gray for them to negotiate. I take the time to emphasize the importance of meeting deadlines and try to help them make the connection to the real world.
I would use class syllabus to outline all the class objectives and I would let the students know about the class expectations. For example, I would tell the students when to expect quizzes, how many days they allow to miss classes or clinicals, and policies regarding remediation and make up clinicals.
I have started posting due dates on the class calendar on my homepage. The students are now getting used to the idea that they can go to my homepage anytime and get the answers they need. This has proven really helpful in classes that don't meet everyday.
I don't give them all the due dates right from the start. I explain what type of assignments they will be doing, but that I will give specific, detailed instructions as we get to each assignment.
As we get to each one, then I give them the due dates. I have found this is better for those students who tend to get overwhelmed with all the information they get on the first day.
I give each student a copy of the syllabus on the first day of class - not only do I give them a copy, I verbally review every item on the syllabus on the first day.
Hi Ed,
Students will quickly say that you do not know what you are talking about, therefore, we must always be clear and complete. There are some students that are waiting on you to mess up.
Patricia
I use a variety of methods to make the course requirements clear. The most effective is constant reminders. I write things down constantly on the blackboard, but I go over the requirements for that day at the begining of class and then the next days requirements at the end of class.
I have found if the requirements are clear and complete at the beginning of course, you will have a group of students who are very angry. You will hear things like "i payed alot of money for this class" and "You don't know what your talking about"
I'm not sure you can over-remind students. However, I do want them to know precisely what the consequences will be if the assignment is not met (content requirements, time due, etc.) If those consequences come as a surprise to the student, I believe a barrier begins to be erected between instructor and student - possibly an issue of trust as well.
I use the syllabus first and foremost, but I continually mention the requirements to the students on a weekly basis. The use of our computer leaning system has been another valuable tool for me to keep the students engaged.
