You want to make sure the students have a clear understanding of what is expected of them to attain from the course and that they also get and understanding of what they are supposed to bring to the table because they have to be willing to accept the knowledge like a sponge and utilize it. If they aren't accepting of it then they won't be able to truly benefit from the material
Hi Lorna,
Thank you for these great comments. It is statements like this that keeps us all coming back to the classroom. We are creating the future for our fields via the students we are helping to educate. This is a wonderful legacy to have.
Gary
I agree, there is nothing like human interaction and being the one who helps facilitate the learning process. When "the lightbulbs" go on and a student integrates concepts and practice, the synergy that occurs is contagious and is what feeds my energy to continue teaching!
It will help alleviate student's fears and anxiety of the course. It provides a structure for the course and what is expected of them throughout the term.
The students should know my expertations and documentation if a student comes back and complains about the course.
It is important to give students a target. It also allows them to know what is expected of them. It takes aways questions and concerns they may have about what is expected of them.
By giving clear requirements the students know what is expected as far as homework or lab projects. It can help them plan their study time or think about the work they have to put into their lab projects. It can also help them get ready for a real work environment where they will be given directions that are expected to be followed.
The first night of class I give out a syllabus that gives an outline of what will be taught this quarter, the content, the project requirements and due date, as well as, examination dates. The requirements for each project is listed with values assigned to each and an example of an exam is given so they can see what my exams are like. When they leave my class they know what to expect and how each subject area will be taught and tested. The project criteria is well explained with percentages assigned to each criteria. My students seem to be happy to have this type of information the first night of class. The reason it is important to give comprehensive and clear description of the course requirements in writing is so the students cannot say they did not know what the content area is or when or what the criteria for an exam or a project would be. Now the students have the information in their hands. No questions asked.
Hi Jean,
Right you are. This sets the stage for the rest of the course and the students leave that day with a clear idea of what it takes to be successful in the course.
Gary
The student must know what is being taught in the course, and how much participation he or she must give to complete it. My big concern is how much of the information I have available can the student absorb in the alotted time.
It is important to give a clear description of course requirement, because it lets the students know what they might expect to learn and what might not be taught be taught in that course as well.
I find that it is the "meat" of the first day of class- it gives the students a road map of what is expected of them and a chance for me to answer any questions about the course- the students expect it and it relieves anxiety for them. It helps them get focused on the learning to be gained.
Students will know what is expected of them throughout the course. It will put students at ease knowing that the course is organizied, clearly stated and no hidden requirements that will later comee back to challenge students.
I feel giving clear and complete course requirements enables the students to focus on the materials. No distractions, able to process and accomplish the requirements
Students need to be aware of the information given to them. Also, it will help them study and focus on important details.
Hi Amanda,
Right you are about clear and concise information about the course requirements plus holding the students accountable for their destiny. They need to make the connection between course success and effort and when they do they have greatly increase the potential they have for success.
Gary
Hi Chuck,
I like both of your approaches. This gives the students the big picture as well as having them personalize the course by listing their own goals. This really helps them focus on the course content.
Gary
It is important to give a comprehensive and clear description of the course requirements so that students will understand what is expected of them. In addition, students will need to take responsibility and confirm that they understand the material and meet the course requirements. This is easy for students to do if you clearly and concisely give them a checklist of expectations and requirements.
I like to discuss the objectives of the course and tell my students what I wish to accomplish and why, but also ask for what they want to learn from the course. In small groups I often have students list five goals they hope to meet by taking this class.
The comprehensive and clear description allows the students to understand up front all of the work and assignments that will be required of them. It also gives them something that indicates that way in which they will be evaluated and a way for them to measure their progress.
