First day of class
I set the expectation of the classroom and college rules, and have the students sign a contract stating they understand and will adhere to the rules.
I think this is a wonderful idea that I intend to use. I always give a syllabus and go over expectations but I never thought to have them sign something stating they understand what is expected of them. Thanks for the great suggestion.
Karen,
I agree. The first day of class is when I set my expectations for the course, and have them sign reciept of syllabus forms and any other paperwork. I also use that day do listen to what they expect from me as their instructor. I do this to show that respect in the classroom is a two way street.
Hi Ebonie,
This is such a relaxed and comfortable way to get the students settled into the course and learning about each other. This sets a real tone for the classes to come.
Gary
I like to give my students of course a syllabus, and also my excpectations. I do an ice breaker and we get to know each other so that way I know the kind of learning styles and a little bit about my students. They also get a chance to know me and my style of teaching.
That's a good way to start. But in my opinion I wanted them to feel comfortable get to know me and learn from them two.
Sabrina I agree with you, especially the job aspect.
The one thing I have done is put the responsibility on the student to contact me if they are not going to be there. I give lecture points and in-class activity points, and let them know if you do not contact me, you will loose both the lecture points and in-class activity points. If they do contact me they will receive the lecture points and they have to write a one page summary over the lessons they missed. This works great, over 90% of my students contact me.
Hi Karen,
Good start to the class because they have in their hands the course rules, expectations, policies and and assignments. With them signing the contract that they received the information they are accountable for following through while in the course.
Gary
I agree with your method Karen. The first day of class is the day to get the ball rolling. Just because it's the first day doesn't make room for exceptions. If students are not dressed appropriately they will not sit in class (this goes for third quarter students who are required to be uniform). The rules are addressed and therefore, will be followed. If not, they are informed that they will be asked to leave class and be counted absent. Once this is addressed, there should have no excuses in the future. They were present on the first day when the rules were discussed. I try not to make it too intimidating though. Explain why these rules are enforced. They are preparing for a real world job where CEO's, managers, and other types of supervisors won't put up with sloppiness or lack of punctuality. They need to be in class so that the knowledge of the field they are pursuing will grow. It will then be evident who is serious about obtaining a job and who is not.
