Student engagement from the first day of class
How many times do you lay out a syllabus and have it ready before you meet your students for the class for the first day of class? I submit that you are missing a great opportunity to connect with your students. I have the requirements of the school and any accrediting bodies identified as the first priority, then any additional minimum items that I want to cover. Then, most importantly, let the students fill in the blanks. Why, you ask? If we predetermine what the next ___ weeks will be, are the students really engaged from the beginning? I have them review all the chapters of the text to get an idea of the full scope of what will be covered then have them write a paper for the next class in which they tell me what topics are most important to them and what kind of learner they are so I can make changes to the syllabus and rearrange how I prioritize the material and how and who will be teaching what parts during the term.
Yes, getting the student engaged from the beginning is imperative for their success.
One way is to greet them, have your materials ready and show your enthusiasm about the class.
If you are excited about it so will they.
Structure is not bad, so long as it is not too rigorous. Students should know that things may change, even on a frequent basis; making this assertion in the addendum provides the instructor with precedence to make such changes.
I think I prefer a more structured approach. I do think this is an interesting idea, but as a student and as a teacher, I like to know what is expected of me up front. As a student, I want the teacher to tell me what is going to be important to know for the class/real world situations instead of having me decide what is important.
Since my class is only 5 weeks long, I feel like the syllabus should be carefully review and students be made aware how important they stick to the schedule.
Hi Thomas,
Thank you for these comments about how to stay within the prescribed structure while putting your own individual stamp on the course. This way you can reflect current issues in the course as well as grading which can change from course to course.
Gary
Hi Chris,
This is a good strategy to use when you are allowed to customize a course to fit the learning needs of your students. This way they are part of their future through the input they give you in their papers and class discussions. I am sure this helps to enhance the engagement factor for students.
Gary
Accrediting body requirements are not paramount in my syllabus (addendum). I have a group-mandated syllabus, but have freedom to set my own addendum, which primarily shows assignments, points for those assignments and due dates. The group-mandated syllabus handles the accrediting body requirements for me.
