Allyson,
This is a good way support your students because by sharing examples of assignments you reduce their fear that they aren't clear as to what you want from them. This way they can jump right in and start to work on their projects.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The students are shown samples of relevant assignments for understanding expectations of work. We also review classroom etiquette expectations.
rules and regulation signed sheet
question and answer session
quick review of class outline
expectation of assignments
why it is important for good attendance
Ashley,
This is a good way to maintain boundaries and yet make yourself accessible to students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I do not provide my cellphone number - rather I give them my email as well as a school message phone line that they can leave me messages - this helps ad in making sure my students know this is a professional relationship and not a friendship.
My students are aware that they are able to reach out to me and know that they can trust I will respond. I want them to know that I am 'connected' but they are aware it is strickly professional.
Chad,
This way the students are accountable for what is in the syllabus because you have gone through it with them. Then you can answer any questions they have about the requirements and the class is ready to move forward.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Going thru the syllabus which out lines in writing my expectations and goals for the class
Sheena,
Your last sentence hits on a really key point and that is the development of their professional skills along with the technical ones. By providing experiences and training in both students will be able to function well in the workplace as both a skilled professional as well as a career expert.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
RICHARD,
It is important to get everyone started on the same page from day one of the course. By making your expectations clear you reduce the anxieties and questions of students so they can focus on how they can meet the course requirements.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Reviewing the syllabus is a great way to show the students not only what is involved in the curriculum but will give them an outline on expectations. Another way talking about the field they are studying and the expectations that the doctors will have on them. We are training our students in the technical AND professional skills essential for their chosen career, so it is our duty to not only teach them the field but also how to be a professional.
I discuss the course syllabus and go over rules and expectations of the students.
JIMMIE,
This is an engaging way to capture the interest of students. This gives the students the total picture from which they then can identify the parts that will require their attention and effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Depending on the class, sometimes I work backwards from the 'target', showing them where they are heading, and then begin with how I am prepared to work with them to get there.
clearly written with rules signed
Heather,
This reduces their concerns and answers their questions so they can be forward focused and ready to take in the contents of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
From day one they receive expectations in the form of a class planner. They know what will be covered and when and when they will be assessed.
James,
This is a very good point that students need to understand. By getting settled into the course and feeling comfortable they feel like they can contribute and become a part of the learning process. Once this is done they are focused and engaged and the learning process really takes off.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
One thing I try to make part of the earliest interactions with my classes is that I expect active listening not only of the students, but of myself as well. Education is made so much more productive if both they and I are jointly sharing ideas, content, and questions. The objective is to get rid of the "undertow" of disengagement.
Tara,
As many students have selective hearing and reading this is a good way to not only inform them but also hold them accountable for having received the information needed for success in the class. Good way for everyone to be on the same page from day one.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Gina,
These types of openings are a key part of getting the students settled into the course and starting to feel that they are going to enjoy being part of the learning community. Good strategy to follow.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
