Lesson plans on a portal?
What is the best format for modern students. Students that are very computer savvy and some thing they can use on there phone?
I love the use of a portal. It is such a wealth of information, if utilized. The unfortunate part of the tech savvy ones are at an advantage while those who aren't so savvy can get lost behind. I believe all information that benefits the students should be available on the portal.
Tremayne,
I appreciate this information so much. This is exactly how I approach my classes with my students, but I share duties with another instructor who does "bend" when she teaches the same students. I get so frustrated that this is tolerated by administration. However, I hear often from students that they appreciate the way I handle my classes. This is what is important to me. That the students who do follow the plans appreciate an instructor giving them that tough love.
Thank you for the affirmation.
Jennifer, I agree. Putting the information in the classroom portal just makes sense. Making the information available, gives the students no room for excuses. If the information is there, they have access to it, then they can use it. I too give out additional information to draw in their attention.
Olga,
I agree. In addition, it is a great way to take initiative in efforts to "go green", by posting the syllabus on the portal only. Many instructors may feel that it is necessary to make several copies and distribute them on the first day of class, however I have found that it is equally effective to display the syllabus on the projector, instead.
Tremayne Simpson
Tremayne,
it is easy to misplace a lesson plan that was printed out.
But when it is available on the portal it empowers students to access the lesson plan and come to class prepared.
Olga
Olga,
I believe that the primary issue in regards to some students not consistently checking the portal for course information, is "consistency". If all instructors at an institution make a concerted efforted to post assignments and class information onto the student portal, then student usage would be more prevalent. However in my experience, some instructors embrace portal usage, whereas others avoid it, which produces inconsistencies in regards to student usage.
Tremayne Simpson
Tremayne, I agree with you.
I post lesson plans on the students' portal and give them hard copies in class. That technique works very well.
Sometimes in a big class I would get an excuse from one or two students for not being ready but everyone knows my expectations. So majority of students get used to being ready for my class and submitting everything on time.
I find the hardest thing with students is getting them to accept that we don't just give them knowledge they have to earn it. Many times it seems students expect us to "give" them the information. Good post
I find putting everything they nee on the portal is the best for my students. and then anything else vital I can hand out to them in class. Since it is our policy that the student portal must be used in all classes, putting "goodies" to entice them to get online helps much.
Danielle,
In my opinion, correcting this behavior begins with "creating an autonomous student". An instructor can assist in creating an autonomous student, by making them aware of consequences and sticking to their course policies, at all times. This will mean that policies have to be clearly listed in the course syllabus (general policies on assignment submission, late work, etc.) and that enforcement is consistent in all cases. This is a "tough love" approach, however career college instructors must ensure that their students are prepared to be self-directed and able to handle the rigors of the career world. They only use excuses because they are expecting the instructor to "bend" the rules/policies and make accomodations.
Tremayne Simpson
Limiting the amount of potential excuses!
That is extremely helpful. Some days it feels as if students spend more time on excuses and blaming everyone but their own lack of discipline.
Any suggestions on how to put some of the learning responsibility back on the student? I often have students begin conversations where they want to list every reason why they couldn't complete the work?
Jennie,
This is an effective practice. Posting the plans on the portal and passing them out in class, can limit the amount of potential excuses from students that may not be prepared.
Tremayne Simpson
I do upload the class syllabus but I do print out the lesson plan for my students and make sure they do have them filed so that everybody will be on the same page, and we do have the best of time management to know all the objectives as well as understand them and apply them.
Jeremy,
I feel that it is best to post the course content on the student portal, including the class syllabus. Students should be able to access the content via their phone and tablets, if they have access to the internet.
Tremayne Simpson
