Class Expectations
One thing that I like to do in class is to spend the first 20 minutes of the very first class going over my expectations for the class. My expectations are simple: come to class, do the work, participate and ask for help when you need it.
I also ask my students to tell me what they expect from me. I write those things down and make them the rules for the class. The worst thing to do is to "talk down" to adult learners.
I wish I had enough time in every class to do this, but it's not allocated to do so. I try to make my expectations clear and listen to my students as well.
Hi Tricia!
I found that by discussing my expectations on the first day of class, my students were made well aware of what to expect. I like the idea that you shared about asking the students to share their expectations about the course as well as from me as an Instructor. I will try this strategy and hopefully it will be useful for me as well.
the key is to be prepared. if you are not ready for your demos then the students feel they can goof around and they tend to not take your demonstrations seriously. it is important to create a situation where you are in control of the situation although they will be a part of the demo and their learning. you must have all of your mise en place and notes ready and encourage them to ready as well.
Hi Tricia,
This is very important to starting a new class off well. By knowing the policies, expectations and requirements of the course the students can assess themselves and see what they are going to need to do in order to be successful. This also reduces any misunderstandings about how the course is going to operate.
Gary
