Clear instructions
Instructions should be clear to eliminate any confusion when completing tasks, assignments, or even just an answer to a question.
Definitely keep instructions simple. The institution at which I teach has a lot of non-traditional students, and most of them are not so good at following complex instructions. Once they get used to following simple instructions, you can make them gradually more complex.
This is a great idea! I write the assignment/instructions on the board, read it at the beginning of class AND read the assignment from the electronic calendar. I try to get the students in the habit of looking at the calendar. Most do not, nor do they listen fully when I provide instructions. Then once in the assignment, they say they didn't see or hear the instructions.
I will try having someone else read and explain. Peers might be the right way to get the classes attention.
Best wishes, Ms. King
Mary Lou,
definitely true. I like to ask the students to repeat the instructions back to me that way I can check for understanding.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I teach math and I find this statement to be true. Students have a very difficult time with ambiguity in most topics, but especially math. It requires focus and a clear mind. Clear statements are extemely important to this process.
I find this to be very true, I was informed by one of my highly respected professors and mentor to keep instructions simple. Giving students too much instructions will only stress and confuse students. I have taken this to heart in my practice and have seen how students appreciate the clear and directness.
