I encourage questions from the class to confirm that what I have explained is understood otherwise, the question will assist me in narrowing down the area of the topic the student did not understand. Going over the course expectation is another important task I perform to make sure that the students understand what is expected to receive full course credit.
I believe involving the students in critical thinking and discussion is very important in getting them invested in the course content.
Hi Kathy,
I believe the same as you in terms of the benefits of using the question and answer format. It helps you to see what the students know plus it gets them interacting with each other.
Gary
I strongly agree with the question and answer method. I believe it helps the students to understand what is expected of them.
Hi Alfretta,
I tend to do the same thing as well when I create my syllabus and course expectations file. I also e-mail this information to each student right away then discuss it when the first class arrives. Thanks, Chris Graves.
Hello Virginia,
I do the same as well by providing the students a list of what will be covered in class and informing them what we expect to get out of each days lesson. Good comment, Chris Graves.
There are several methods/techniques that I use to make sure my students understand what I expect of them. First, I verbally inform the students what my expectations are and explain the importance of these expectations. I like to follow-up my discussion by providing the students handouts such as the course outline and syllabus and go over the various pieces of information contained in these documents. Lastly, I like to stay consistent with my teaching methods by incorporating what I verbally discussed into what I actually teach.
I review my expectations of class reading assignments and general class decorum.
It is important to let your students know your expectations up front. I makes the class run smoother and avoids anxiety with students.
for continued success in a classroom you need to set expectations.
Hi Virginia,
What a great way to project forward the learning process for your students. This helps to keep their motivation level high about what is going to happen during the next class session.
Gary
How interesting and exciting the next course of discussion will be is a common thread at the end of class- positive reinforcement--how much they have learned/accomplished--and how you appreciate their hard work.
I write the objectives on the board for each hour. Before I start lecture, I review the objectives for that hours verbally. The students know what materials we will be covering, and that I have a plan (that I am organized).
Hi Adam,
I really like your approach because you make your expectations clear through the explanation you give the class. In addition you make it easy for every student, including those that are not as outgoing to get their questions asked and answered. This is a great way to start off a new class.
Gary
My methods are to lead by example
Simple is often best. After going over the expectations I provide ample time for questions and clarification. Clarification comes by restating, illustrating, and inviting other students to offer their understanding. In that way, peer teaching/learning takes place. Each student hears the expectations from the perspective of others and stated in multiple ways. Lastly, I invite anyone with questions they'd like addressed privately to bring them to me after class. This has the effect of easing the concerns of someone less inclined to ask questions publicly.
I spend the very first day of class discussing my expectations. I put them in writing on the course syllabus and while discussing I explain my rationale. I also discuss their responsibilities as a student.
Hi Heather,
Right you are. It is good to recognize this early in your teaching career as this will help you to avoid many stressful situations that can occur if the students feel they can take advantage of you.
Gary
I have found that I need to be firm on policies and rules I set for the class. If I'm not, I get taken advantage of and create a lot more work for myself than is really necessary. I care about my students, and I really don't want to see them fail, but sometimes they might need to learn from making a mistake and dealing with the consequences of that mistake.
Hi Ryan,
Good way to build sequential thinking in your students. They get to analyze what has been covered and then use their problem solving skills to respond and apply their new knowledge.
Gary
