I always go over the assignments with them first. I teach mostly composition courses so that means explaining the essay assignments in detail and then having a draft before the final copy due to catch any problems beforehand. Depending on the complexity of the assignment, I often also provide handouts with the assignment details.
In my class I will cover the syllabus in detail and I give them a test about the content of the syllabus, I noticed they pay much more attention to understand what is included in it. Before I use to hear that I did not know that it was in the syllabus, not anymore thank you for the testing.
I use a powerpoint of the syllubus while the students have a printed copy to go over all important points
I hand them copies of the Syllabus, each weeks assignments, policies and procedures and the grading criteria. I also make them sign a contract stating that they recieved the above materials and that they will be held accountable for ant non-compliance.
Well, I can't speak from experience on this as I haven't held my own class as yet. My plans however, are to establish on day one what will be expected of the students by handing out a list of expectations and reviewing each point with the class. This list will also be prominantly posted in a conspicuous place in the classroom for reference. I will also ask the class what their expectations are of me and discuss them with the class.
I agree the class syllabus is a tool that can be used to cover what the course is about and what’s expected of the students.
Hi Elizabeth,
You have a solid foundation from which you will able to operate. You are organized and have planned out how you are going to conduct your classes. You are to be commended for all of your planning. Approach your first class with confidence and engage your students in some "ice breaker" activities that will enable you to get the feel of your class. Then you can take them through the syllabus and expectations.
You are going to be great!
Good luck!
Gary
I go over every lab task before we go to lab. It is in the course syllabus and in the students course book.
Hello Dr. Meers,
I have not started teaching my first class yet. I will supply a syllabus and go through it the first day. I will elaborate on each item and open the class to discuss and/or answer any questions they may have. One of the first things I plan to do is to squelch any fears they may have of the subject and of taking quizzes or tests. Also, I want to impress on them how important it is that they 1) show up to class, 2) show up on time, and 3) participate in projects and class discussions.
Since the first day in class, students have to know what is expected of them. I personally, had a syllabus of the course already set up and ready for them to take a look at. Most instructors use those pretty well. I specifically go over what is expected of them and mainly what the requirements are in order for them to succeed in this course of study.
I list on the board what I expect during the course of the class. I then read aloud what is in print and will ask the students if they understand. (this is the first chance for a positive response) I will then play devils advocate.
I expalin that if they were me and the class as presented in the course syllabus was theirs to instruct...what would some of their expectations be?
Additionally I will ask what they expect from the course.
I like to empower the student with the idea that the learner is responsible for the ourcome ...that all of the knowledge in the world can not make them learn if they don't open their minds to the experience.
I ask questions, encourage questions and allow them to know that a dialogue is always open on all material.
This process is ongoing through the course of the class on a daily basis as we encounter new topics and skills to learn and practice.
I feel the best way to insure understanding is to be open, List the requirements and then LISTEN!
The syllabus is so important the first day of class. Each student should receive their own copy, and sign the last page stating they have received it. This shoiuld explain all expectations, grading, and provide time for questions and any other needed clarification.
In addition to Rochelle's list, I would add that even though the course is not a lab format, everyone is expected to participate in class discussions . The technique that I would recommend for the students is reading the assigned course materials prior to the class session.
