I try to give out lesson plans and thoroughly explain what is going on in each lecture.
I also list the classroom objectives daily on the board
When going over the syllabus I make sure that I have everything down in writing. Also I make sure that the student can access the syllabus at all times through their portal so that they can check on a regular basis that they are meeting the requirements of the class.
I have a powerpoint I show at the beginning of every class which lays out not only the rules set forth by the school but also my expectations. It usually takes about 30 min to present with Q&A time for clarification.
There are various methods for insuring your expectations are clear so that the students can meet them. Dirct feedback by asking students the question directly to see there responce is one effective method.
Kimberly,
You are providing them a continuum of educational learning opportunities as they progress through the course. Knowing what has been covered and then what will be covered helps to give them the big picture.
Gary
Generally I explain how the skill and knowledge we are covering applies to their career occupation and that it is imperative to gain the skill and knowledge to be successful. Weighted categories of grading are noted on my syllabus and lesson plan. At the conclusion of the class, I will tell them what we will be covering in the next class. Going over required readings, assignments, and if they will have a test. I also explain what will aid them in studying and what to study.
James,
Good way to reinforce the expectations and requirements of the course with this two stage approach. They receive the information and then have it reviewed the next class meeting. This should reduce the misunderstandings that arise with students.
Gary
At the start of each course I hand out written detailed expectations. The next class I call on students to repeat back to me what they think I expect. This way I detect any misunderstandings that may have occurred. I continue to ask the students what they think I expect until it becomes a joke and the whole class responds with the correct answers.
Gary, that was good feedback for me also. I am in my second year instructing in a laboratory and I get very little questions. Then as the course goes on there are many similar mistakes that I have to address but I always wonder why don't they ask me when the subject is being covered!
well I have to say I do the old pop quiz idea almost everyday. I read them that night after they leave and see what student learned and what one didnt. At our weekly meeting the student gets these back adn also thats when I let them know if they are missing points for falling asleep or looking off into space. I show them the quiz and show them what the change was.
This helps me also to see how im teaching.
Hamm
Merrick,
Good point about expectations. Knowing them from the start helps students to get settled in and focused on achieving them.
Gary
this is so true students should always start the module knowing what they are expected to do throughout the module
I spell it out in the course syllabi and I explain this is a contract - I will follow it and I expect you to follow it to. There will be no surprises and it will be fair if we stick to the items on the syllabi.
I go over the syllabus thoroughly and explain what is expected of my students. They can ask questions and we talk about anything they would like to discuss.
I agree totally and after I tell them my expectations I ask them "what their expectations" are for this course. It has been successful so far
I think that setting a lesson plan and conveying to the students what they are to expect to learn that day is an excellent idea. It helps the students focus on the content and keeps you on track in teaching!
I make sure my students understand my expectations by asking them to repeat some of what I have gone over. I also encourage students to ask questions or state any concerns they may have.
The first day of the class I will lay everything that I expect of my students out for them. grades, attendence, exams, projects, participation, ect. this way they know what to expect of me as well.
I go over my syllabus as well as class room policies. I give them my rules at the very beggining of the first day and make sure I follow them through.
Shonna,
A well balanced approach to delivering the different learning options. This way the students can work within their learning preferences for maximum learning.
Gary
