The teaching technique that I utilize often is to give my students an outline of the home works, projects and the grade value that they will receive base on their completion. Plus I explain my expectation for each category.
I could talk to the class about what I expect and go on a question and answer phase afterwards.
Hi Lawrence,
This is a great way of conditioning your upcoming students to who you are and what the class is going to be about. This makes the transition much easier.
Gary
I visit my incoming class and give them an introduction of me and the course syllabus to review before entering my class. Also I go over expections of what will be expected of the students to achieve the objectives in the course.
Hi Chris,
This sets a standard for the students and this is very important. Once they know the standard they can operate within it since it is clear for them. Also the standard is set by the industry and you are holding them to that standard so they will be able to fit into that industry.
Gary
I set the foundations for my expectations from day one. That means strict adherence to the uniform code. I let them know that I expect nothing but their best effort from them and will hold them accountable.
For each type of specific learning activity indicated on the sylabus, I providea separate grading rubric so that the students further understand the goals and objectives of the specific activity.
I made the mistake of not stating what methods and techniques that I would use in a class. I found out just how important it is. Many of the students were confused and didn't necessarily like the class due to the confusion. I made the assumption that the students would read the syllabus addendum. I will never make the assumption again. I believe that I will be taking the time in the first class to discuss how I plan to get the information that they need to take from the class across. I will also be using different techniques to get the participation and expectation issues across to the students.
give them written handouts and discuss the expectiations as well
Being a new instructor, I too at times feel I come over as being too nice. When I let the students know what I expect of them, at time I don't know if they understand that I will stand by my standards. Yet I want to convey that I will be somewhat flexable if their excuses are valid. I want to start the day by going over expectations of the classroom, when I see others are abusing rules. What do you think.
Hi Bryon,
Much of learning is based upon repetition. By hearing and seeing it a second time it really helps the students to retain the information and be able to respond to it later on.
Gary
I make sure that my students have a written form of the instructions and I go over each one at least twice.
I feel that repeating the instructions a few times seems to make things stick.
Hi Daniel,
This is essential. The students need to be shown the future that can be theirs if they will work hard and apply themselves. This will help them to aspire for higher levels of competence and career development.
Gary
Many students have surprisingly low expectations for what they can accomplish and for what will be required of them for success. Being consistent and clear helps to raise their expectations.
Hi Kim,
Good idea. By writing down questions and collecting them you can make sure that every student has a chance to ask a question even though they might not do it in the general class setting.
Gary
I frequently stop talking and ask, Is this clear? Any questions? Do I need to rephrase? I also have students write down questions about what we've just talked about and collect those and answer aloud.
I try to break the course down into clear and concise sections and guide them through the importance of each section.
Hi Justin,
I don't think you are setting a bad example at all by being a bit relaxed on the first class meeting. I have students coming in at various times because they are trying to find the right room, etc. Being a little lax on this first class meeting shows you have an understanding of their trying to find where they need to be.
I make it very clear that I enforce a strict attendance and tardy policy. The policy is explained in the syllabus and in class. I don't have a problem with the students after the first day. If I do I approach the student individually and ask how we can solve the problem of being late. I don't let them walk in late. I have them wait until a break before they come into the class. This really reduces tardiness. We are training for career success and being on time everyday is a critical part of that success.
Gary
When it comes to the first part of class on the first day of the term I tend to give extra time to those that are late. Many times the student is revising their schedule, talking to financial aid, can't find the class or a number of other reasons beyond their control, so I explain to those already in class that I'm going to start class a little late to make sure everyone has taken care of whatever first day business may be lingering. I talk to those in class about the field they are studying to fill the time. Is this a good idea or am I setting a bad example?
Hi Colette,
You have to be clear, firm and consistent as the class manager. By having your expectations clearly spelled out and then shared with the students you are setting the stage for a successful class.
Gary
