Hi Joe,
I make it a point to thoroughly go over the syllabus on Day 1. I've known instructors to even quiz students on the syllabus.
Patricia
Patricia,
I think that it is important to have the course requirement written in a syllabus, which is handed out on the first day of class. Once the syllabus is handed out, it is then necessary to expalin the class policies and answer any questions that students may have in order to clear up any misundersatndings in the course requirements.
Joe
I too have been accused of over communicating, but I don't know any more effective way to disseminate the necessary information to teams of students who's life schedules are so diverse.
Like most other instructors (especially those in Online) I serve groups of students who's work, school, family, life schedules include all the regularly identified shifts, and then some.
Experience has taught me that it's better to over, rather than under communicate the necessary information to successfully complete of my classes!!!!!
Hi Jennifer,
I like the idea of the electronic gradebook! Students have no excuses for not knowing.
Patricia
During the first class session, I outline the grade allocation for the course as well as clearly present the course requirements. Students have the opportunity to ask questions as they arise. I also give students access to an online gradebook on a school website where they can check due dates and class assignments for the course. This tool allows students to see all the requirements for the course from the beginning so there are no surprises and they may prepare for assignments well in advance of the due dates.
Hi Kim,
There is nothing like putting rules, policies, proedures, deadlines, assignments, etc. in writing. The documentation is a great reference.
Patricia
When I first began teaching I didn't have any clear guidelines in writing. I always verbalized my expectations. Although I thought I made myself very clear, there was always some confusion. Comments like, "I didn't hear you say that", or "I thought you said this". Now, along with the corporate syllabi, I give them an addendum of my own outlying more specific requirements and expectations.
When I first began teaching I didn't have any clear guidelines in writing. I always verbalized my expectations. Although I thought I made myself very clear, there was always some confusion. Comments like, "I didn't hear you say that", or "I thought you said this". Now, along with the corporate syllabi, I give them an addendum of my own outlying more specific requirements and expectations.
I go through the syllabus and the policies on the first day. Along with that I ensure that they understand the deadlines for homework and projects highlighted by the dates in the syllabus. I also highlight exam dates to ensure that they know when those dates are.
I provide them with a syllabus the first day along with an outline of information to be covered, chapters discussed, in-class work, homework, what's due and point values for all work. This gives them an overview of specific information. I also give lesson plans each week. All of this information is also on the student portal.
Hi Craig,
Students seem to be held more accountable when a signature is secured.
Patricia
Hi Teresa,
It should never be a surprise for students when it comes to assignments. Students should know up front what is expected of them.
Patricia
Hi Carrie,
I am sure your students appreciate your openess and honesty. This is the best way to be to minimize student complaints/concerns.
Patricia
Hi Dragush,
You do a good job of covering all bases to make course requirements clear for your students.
Patricia
I make a briefly description of course, course learning outcomes, text and other instructional/learning materials. I also explain goals,objectives,topics for this particular course and explain my expectations about the course
I hand out a class syllabus, which we review on the first day. Also, I make a calendar for the class which designates all required homework for that day, what we will be covering in class on each day, and the dates for all tests with due dates for all assignments In doing this, the student will know exactly what is coming up, and what they will miss if absent on a particular day.
Hi Maria,
From your list I can tell you do a fine job with making course requirements clear. I especially like the idea of the addendum.
Patricia
I have in class discussions at the begining of each course, and tell them in detail what the requirements are and how to acheive them. I strive to be open and honest with them and allow for student feedback as to what they need from me so they can have a positive learning environment
It is important to make sure the students know all of the requirements so they are not surprised if they do not turn something in on time. The students also need to know deadlines so they can know how to plan their studies and get their work done as well.
I like that students sign off on the addendum. I think I will start doing that as well.
Craig Couillard
