It is important to have an ice breaker. I have one that I use to get to know my students better. Also, it is important to have group activities and team projects. This helps students get to know each other and learn how to work together as a team.
This training provided me great insight when preparing a syllabus to include details so the students know their expectations, how they will be evaluated and how their time will be spent during the course.
Moodle has the due dates by weeks and love the icebreaker idea started this mod using it.
An icebreaker helps students get accquainted with each other . Setting classroom rules on the first day and constant reminders of what is expected of the student is a must.
This first module concerns giving the class an idea how the course information will benefit them in thier careers, as well as explaining to the students the format of the class, the subjects and skills being taught, the grading of exams and assignment deadlines. This will allow the students to not only know what the requirements of the class are, but to develop an"expectation" of what their progress could be.
The idea of the social aspect of education, i.e. teamwork projects and ice-breaker activities is also discussed, with the purpose of reducing the initial anxiety of being around "strangers", as well as demonstrating the benefits of observing and learning through peer experiences and talents.
Going over the syllabus and setting requirements and expectations is a must. Always find a common ground with students and be approachable. Show your human side by sharing common experiences.
I make it a point to go over my grading policies, as well as provide multiple examples. I want the students to understand just how much each assignment & their professionalism grades will impact their overall final grade.
I always begin class by greeting my students, once they are all ready to go I have a ice breaker with them and make sure everyone is comfortbale in the classroom. I introduce myself and go over grading, assignments, etc.
First day of class we cover syllabus, use this also for letting students know there will be no rewards for late assignments, and as semester goes give reminders of due dates.
I've learned that even adults do not pay attention to deadlines and will push the rules and request you to bend them at times. setting clear expectations upfront is important.
A clear message and understanable wording makes all the diiferance in a students mindand the affects are incredible.
The true measure os a student seccess is how well students are prepaired to accomplish goals.
I do understand students do rely on our help when completing assignments to a point we must and should assist , comprehension is a key in where many students fail We have to assure that we listen when they ask for our assistance give them that security feeling they will not fail.
Icebreaker work when you have a whole new class. When you have the same group of students Mod after Mod cant really do them anymore.
Posting deadlines in multiple places as reminders is a great idea. Gives the student zero chance for excuses.
I will Have due dates on my syllubus and on the board,
I will begin to repeat the due date early in the week.
Making expectations clear at the start of the course will help avoid misunderstandings and complictaions. The syllabus is the source of truth where clear guidelines for students are written.
Be a role model to the students and set your expectations up front with due dates and assignments.
Great concrete examples on how to phrase and enforce classroom rules
