I think it's important so that students feel that they are in control of their success. Meaning, they know what they have to do and how we, as instructors, are going to assess them. It can help reassure them that they can do it. I heard a speaker on leadership say, "It is essential when managing people, that everyone knows what is expected of them". The same can be said for students in the classroom.
When anyone knows what is expected of them, they can set a plan to achieve it. When you have no expectations or goals and the level of mastery is not clearly defined, there is a lack of motivation and often a lock of accomplishment for a student.
It gives the students a clear view of the course they are about to be engaged in and a clear list of what of they can expect and what they are to expect from the instructor.
It is important so that students know what is expected of them and to open a dialogue if anything is unclear. It also serves as a reference point for the students as they progress through the course. Also, should any questions arise as to a student's progress or lack thereof, you can show them that they knew what was required of them since the first day of class.
It gives the students a foundation of what is expected of them and what they need in order to achieve the goals of the class in my opinion.
I think it is important to give a comprehensive and clear description of the course requirements so that the students know what to expect. On the first day of every class, I give my students a course syllabus and a calendar. The syllabus outlines what we will learn and the calendar outlines when we will lecture, have assignments, quizzes and tests. It also outlines what chapters will be covered so those who like to work ahead can have that option. It keeps confusion down too.
Effective progress evaluation is dependent on the instructor's ability to clearly define expectations prior to administration of the teaching process.
So your students have an accurate description of the course requierments. what is expected of them during the duration of the course.
Hi Ted,
Good point. This reduces many questions and much frustration on the part of students. Knowing expectations enables them to plan how they will be successful in the course.
Gary
This is important so the student understands the topics to be covered, key concepts involved in the learning, projects that may be assigned, field trips & guest speakers that may be scheduled, and any other key points that should be highlighted.
I find that even in the most complicated of subjects having a clear and comprehensive understanding helps students remain calm and focused on what their ultimate course goal is.
Hi Sabrina,
There needs to be some form of documentation that can be referenced is needed. Your method gives them a handout that explains everything so they know the course expectations.
Gary
Giving a clear and comprehensive description of requirements can leave few questions in the future. Students are prepared and know what to expect if they don't follow this requirements and therefore have no excuses to not adhere to those requirements. If any questions do arise, you can always refer back to a sheet that I, particularly, give to my students. This sheet can be a type of contract between you and your students.
Hi Pam,
This is so important to do right from the beginning. This way the students can get settled into the course and know exactly what it takes to be successful in the course if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Clear descriptions allow the student to know upfront what is required of them to pass the course, as well as setting up our leadership qualities as instructors.
Hi James,
This is very important to do each time you start a new class. What are some methods you use to make your expectations clear to your students? Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
By, Edwardo Mojena
A clear focus on the rules in the start it will relieve allot of headaches in the long term. This will prevent any misleading information throughout the course and discomfort during the duration of the class.
So the students know what is expected of them during the course and know what they are to get out of the course.
Hi Yi,
This is so important to do because then you will have all of the students on the same information level in terms of course requirements. This does much to keep the course moving forward as it needs to.
Gary
Hi Joan,
So true. You have to let the students know you value the opportunity to teach them content about your field. Then you have to share with them the plan for doing so. With the combination of instructional formatting you will have set the stage for student success if they will put forth the effort.
Gary
