We need to make sure that our syllabus is clear with detailed objectives. It is very important to establish a rapport with students. Keys to success on the first day and providing clear expectations are:
1. Have a solid syllabus, easy to read with clear course objectives.
2. Provide information on how students will be tested and their learning measured.
3. Allow the students to ask questions on instructor expectations for classroom participation.
4. Ask students how they best learn and incorporate all the learning styles in the course delivery.
I believe that verbal communication in conjunction with the written class syllabus is key.
Continual testing and conversation to insure understanding.
I think making my expectation clear to the students from the start is one of the most important things I do as an Instructor. When I tell my students what they are going to be required to do – I have to ensure that I follow up and hold them to that requirement – as soon as I fail to follow through or change in the middle of the course I lose credibility with the students and may never get it back.
However, I do let them know from the start the changes are a way of life and that if something is going to change I ensure they are told as far in advance as possible.
I try to give a written copy of the Expectations along with written explanations on the board when possible and try to have the students explain the expectation back to me in their own words.
I make sure with my students I give a lesson outline explaining the objectives for that day. Then I follow up what will be discussed in the chapter itself letting my student know what they will understand by the end of the chapter.I also follow up with a demonstration on what the previous chapter was on. That's how I make my students understand my expectations and clear with my students.
I start by reviewing the course syllabus and then having the student sign off that they understand the expectations of the course.
When going over what is expected from my students I like to give them the information to look over, have them read part of it, and I read part of it. I also go over what expectations that i have for them that may not be included in the syllibus. I always ask them for feedback and allow them time to discuss any of the expectations that are presented to them.
On the first day of class I state to all of my students what I expect from them and they are given it in writing. They are also given one to sign. On my expectations form I have listed items regarding grades, assignments, missed assignments, tardiness, and grades. They are well informed in writing of what I expect from them. On the form they are also given a list of things that they should expect from me.
I lay my rules dwon from the very beinning so they know what I expect of them. I also give them the same respect that I would like in return.
I discuss my expectations and give examples of what I expect. I also explain why I have the expectations that I have. I think that helps the students to understand the importance of fulfilling those expectations.
At the start of the course a syllabus is handed to them with everything that is going to be covered and assignments that will handed out to them.
It includes a breakdown of how the grading systems works and what they each will be grading on.
Janet,
Good strategy. With the outline your students have the road map for course success if they are willing to put forth the effort required.
Gary
I hand out my "Course Outline" which indicates daily assignments, tests, projects, and due dates. This allows the students to plan ahead and not be anxious about the unknown.
I use repetition and handouts. I also make sure the students know my available office hours to meet with me.
I make sure my students know I am accessible in the event they should need to ask a question or have a problem with an assignment.
JOSEPH,
So true and so important.
Gary
Leann,
How to you share the class rules with your students? Do you list them, discuss them, are they in the syllabus?
Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Sharif ,
I agree. I am currently teaching two sections of the same course back to back and each one has a unique personality. I have to customize my approach to meet the needs of each class if I am going to keep them engaged and focused on what I am sharing with them.
Gary
I agree, a detailed syllabus not only is my roadmap, but it should be detailed enough so that the student knows exactly what learning will be taking place
I think it is important to be clear about the rules the first day of class.
