On the 1st day of class I give the students a "Need to Know" info session for the lab and class requirements. I like to be able to incorporate a calendar-oriented version of the course schedule which includes topics of discussion by chapter along with all test dates and approximate times; I have students write in the point value of each test to use as a memory tool. The schedule also has all lab work included by title and number on the days they are to be worked on.
Whenever possible I even show them exactly what I will ask of and expect of them to do for the lab final exam to help get a target in place for learning objectives throughout the course.
Great ,providing it in writting is a great reference tool for students through out the cycle days.
Always great first day expectations. Sets the tone and puts students on board the love train.
i give a typed syllabi to the class and I review it thoroughly to them. This contains all the information such as grades, discipline, assignments and then they sign a paper at the end stating they have received it and understand it. It is indeed a road map to my class.
I always make it a point to review the syllabus with my students on the first day so they are fully aware of the expectations of the course
I use a very detailed syllabus that has everything from how I grade to assignments, calendar and a signed contract that they understand the syllabus. This way when they attempt to tell me a sad story about how they didn't know when something was due... I pull out the contract and syllabus. Generally that ends the conversation and it is in a positive light. No arguements and no confrontation
Hi David,
How do you go about making course requirements clear?
Patricia
Patricia,
I try to ensure my syllabus spells out exactly what is required and the timelines for expected submissions. When teaching an online course, hyperlinking the references to correlate with the assignments and including an overview "bottom line" presentation helps in this process. When in class, using a designated spot on the whiteboard or bulletin board for requirement "due dates" works best for me.
I think a lot of this depends on the subject and the method of instruction.
cheers,
Greg
Students need to be provided a course syllabus that clearly defines the relevance of the course and the objectives that need to be met at the end of each class day. Constant reminder and evaluation of their progress and learning is key and essential to their success.
I also love this viewpoint and will use it.Always great to re validate the road to excellence.
Hi Sandra,
Wow, you want to make sure everything is clear. You go above and beyond by reviewing the syllabus again several days later. I like the additional review because the mind is really loaded on the first day of class.
Patricia
Hi David,
I like the idea of utilizing the white board. Students have a lot going on, and the information written on the white board serves as a reminder.
Patricia
Hi Dan,
It is important to know that everyone is on the same page. It is good to make the requirements and expectations known to students on Day 1.
Patricia
We read the syllabus together. Followed by a Q & A session to be sure everyone is on the same page.
On Day 1 I always go over the sylabus and lesson plan with my students, page after page, and try to explain as much as I can, to make sure it is all clear in their minds and we are all on the same page...
I like the fact all areas are covered and students clearly understand expectations.I like the ongoing white board so students know where to look weekly.
The methods that I use to make the course content clear is the first few days of the class I take and review all of the course objectives, requirements, assesments, classroom procedures, and behavior. So that there is no surprises with the students, they know exactly what I expect of them and exactly what to expect of me as well.
Presentation, detailed discussion of the course syllabus, on the first day, and syllabus review again several days later to make sure all requirements are clear. Accepting questions, concerns, comments at this time as well.
If students are not informed of the course expectations in the very beginning, they can use their lack of understanding as an excuse for not progressing as expected.
We use a powerpoint presentation on day 1. From there on its up to the students to follow thru.
