can you be too firm
Can you be too firm in your expectations on the first day of class?
I tend to be hard on my students because of my past experiences. I was always hard on myself because I wanted to do well. I have to keep reminding myself that everyone doesn't learn the same way and that I need to take that into consideration when planning my classes and giving them the expectations.
Kimberley,
They do so quickly don't they. This is why we must be consistent in our enforcement of our rules and policies. If we aren't they problems start to surface and learning starts to drop away.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think balance and consistency is important. I have had trouble with students who have previously been allowed to bend some of the rules. I have to set my boundaries firmly at the start of the class and continue to enforce them throughout. If I am not consistent then the students revet to their old ways.
Jason,
There needs to be a balance maintained when working with students so you keep them engaged and relating to you as a professional in their field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe that a light touch is required with students, it involves them rather than alienate them.
Cynthia,
Good point about how you set the standard for the class through your syllabus and then comments. With this approach you do have room to make adjustments as needed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Michael,
Yes but this seldom happens if you provide students with a well prepared syllabus and clear goals and objectives. Then you do an ice breaker where everyone gets a chance to participate, laugh and learn more about each other. Then wrap the class up with introductions. By doing all of these activities the students will get to see how the course is going to operate and that they can be successful if they will work at it.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Hi,
I agree with Robert. On my first day of class, I gave out my syllabus with the same type of course requirements that I was expected to follow when I was both an undergrad and graduate student. I did all my students exchange looks with each other and I also recognized a few of the "Oh my God...this teacher is crazy!" looks that I'm sure I exchanged with many of my classmates in school. I was fortunate that I had to email a copy of my syllabus to the Department Chair who then gave me the feedback that I was potentially scaring some of the students.
I've since adjusted some of the requirements and it seems to be working well. But I feel that I had I started off easy, there would have been no room to make adjustments.
Yes I believe that you can scare away a student especially one who may be borderline with expectations. You should keep expectations clear and realistic. However You must show there are reasons for being firm.
