So they can get an idea of what they will be doing with their future; what their job will be; what will be expected of them and if they can handle it.
It is important as it is a means to make the learning a "real World " connection.
You certainly don't want them modeling the project or activity from the example given. And you're right, recently my students worked in groups on numerous occasions and the project ideas and finished products were awesome.
It is important because examples serve as a guide or model superior work product. For the visual leaner, it is extremely important. Alternatively, providing examples can serve as a crutch and stifle creativity. As such, in higher level courses, you might want to hold off and see what the students come up with first. You might be pleasantly surprise.
That is a brilliant approach that I plan on adopting as well.
It really helps to show examples of work they will be doing during the course as this will lend to building up their enthusiasm for learning the subjects covered, it allows for the students to better anticipate the skills and knowledge they will acquire and also foresee how this information will be relevant in their future careers.
In my Basic Web Design class, on the first day of class we take a look at a variety of websites (ranging from simple layouts to complex pages)and preview the source code to show the type of coded language involved and how it is structured. While doing this I start to explain the key elements which they will be learning and the progression of the learning process by explaining the hierarchy(HTML, CSS and Javascript)of the different web languages.
One of my concerns is to avoid making some students who are still fairly new to the Computer Information Systems program from becoming overwhelmed and nervous by thinking that the subject is too complicated. I generally try to alleviate their fears, by explaining how we will begin with baby steps, but I leave out no illusions that some of the work will require dedication, commitment and patience while problem solving for errors in their written code. Nevertheless I would appreciate any suggestions or tips to improve on my approach.
IT HELPS THEM TO UNDERSTAND WHAT THEY NEED TO BE LOOKING FOR & WHAT YOU AND THE COURSE REQUIREMENTS EXPECT FROM THEM ALSO. IT GIVES THEM A DEFINATE GUIDELINE.
Students need to be familiar with what is expected of them and if they are a visual learner this method would be helpful
By showing examples, students know what is expected of them. Also, it generates enthusiasm and interest in what they will be learning. Many students are visual learners, so again, this may pique students' interest.
Hi Matt,
Tangibility is an excellent selling point for anything. Students tend to really get it when something tangible is involved. The can visualize what has been shared with them.
Patricia
Providing examples of work allows the student to focus more on the substance of the course and learning outcomes. Making the expectations clear at the beginning also avoids the costly process of rework and poor grading.
Students like to see their work displayed. It increases their amount that they will produce,and the quality of their work.
So they have a guideline as to what is expected of them to complete the assignment.
Seeing examples of student work is a positive message to students. It shows them the type of work that they can look forward to completing and provides a tangible example of what they can expect to accomplish if they apply themselves in the course.
This will show them how they will benefit from the course if they put in the required effort.
Hi Brandon,
It is important for students to have very clear expectations and requirements of them. Visualization always seems to put things in perspective.
Patricia
Hi Alexxis
I appreciate your feedback... a career in design is unique from other professions... and I do believe defined criteria is a critical part of the process...
* I think we teach on the same campus..
I am impressed with your answer - and agree Skip! Having "project criteria" to work with rather than providing an "absolute answer" is key.
That is why Fashion Design is so exciting - the many variables that are included with designing, say, an evening gown or a business suit.
Knowing what the parameters are and how to incorporate them into the final project by showing actual garments add to the course by inspiration and by showing industry standards.
And, having both instructor and student work as sample garments provide a baseline from which the students should understand in order to compete (and thrive)within the fashion industry.
adult learners like to have examples of there work so they can work by example. They feel more confident when they have something to compair to.
Students often ask to see what the completed assignment should look like. I try to keep a file of examples and often create my own if it is a new assignment.
