Giving them instructional methods and giving them syllabus and objective of the course
In addition to the syllabus, I have put together a "Classroom Information, Expectations, and Professional Conduct" handout that gives me the opportunity to be detailed about the different elements of the course and class that a syllabus would not allow for. After we cover all the items, I ask for a signature! This assures me that students are understanding and agreeing to uphold these expectations. They keep a copy of the handout for reference.
I make sure that I communicate very clearly what I expect. There are written documents that are signed as well, allowing a second form of communication.
Clear expectations of the course requirements provide a platform for the student. They become aware of classroom policies; instructor polices, and course objectives. This allows the student to determine their overall success in the course.
I hand out an addendum to my syllabus of my expecations for them so they know the rules upfront and also know the consequences if they don't follow the rules.
My syllibus contains most of what I expect of the student. I also give them a handout that contains specific expectations spelled out for them. Clear expectations are a must for a positive learning environment.
I use powerpoints and step b step demonstrations.
By making your expectations clear from day one you are putting into place your expertise and authority as an instructor.
Hi Dr. Okpala,
I like the way you lay out the polices of the course and give the student the foundation upon which the course will operate. This helps to reduce frustration and anxiety and focuses the students forward in their thinking.
Gary
It is very important to make sure the expectations are told upfront. So i have the rules of the class posted on the board everyday
I teach classes online. So, usually on the first day of the class resumption, my students and I have to assemble in a traditional classroom setting. There in their midst, I will direct them on the detailed course expectations such as, assignment due dates, discussion posts requirements, expected turnaround time for the return of their graded assignment back to them, expected turnaround timeframe for the return of their phone calls or reply to their emails; netiquette rules, etc.
Making my expectation clear to the students will a standard guide line for them
I compose a list of expectations and classroom rules, hand them out on the first day and reiterate when necessary.
The first day of class I hand out the syllabus, which includes an explanation of my expectations for the class. I then go over the syllabus in class and emphasize my expectations. I then entertain any questions the students may have about what I expect of them.
One struggle I had over this past year was with students coming into class late. This occurred repeatedly despite my warnings in the syllabus and in class about being more than five minutes late and being counted absent. It seems like an issue that should be easily address, but with a hundred students it is often difficult to police. Not sure what I could do to better ensure that students know I expect them to be in class on time. Any thoughts are appreciated.
Asking questions, assignment, term paper.
I have a full discussion on this topic and write key points on the board so there is no misunderstandings. I also discuss what the students expect of me!
Hi Wendy,
It works well for me. Everyone has a laugh but they get the message in a humorous way.
Gary
I love this idea. I have a strict no cell phone policy which is announced the very first day of class. I have even gone as far as to have acell phone basket. If the phone goes off in my class, or they are caught texting, the phone goes in the basket until the end of class. Perhaps if I take mine into class and answer it, they would understand.
Hi Rachael,
Thank you for sharing this strategy with us. It is a great way to reduce confusion and student frustration. You have it laid out clearly so there isn't any discussion in relation to is the content appropriate. You have set a percent level and they can use it as the guide.
Gary
I use the syllubus as well as classroom rules to teach example of how to be successful in my class.
