Scoring style, tables, objectives, and such listed on syl.
Fielding questions about scoring and grades directly.
Have well defined assignment descriptions available to students.
Hi Steven,
You're right! I do not care how thorough you are, there will be students to act as though they have never heard this information.
Patricia
1. Send out read-aheads of course requirements to all students.
2. Day 1 orientation I cover course reqirements and ask if there are any questions.
3. Prior to the beginning of each course day I highlight what we have covered and what will be covered next.
And there are always students at the end of the course who act surprised about the requirements (and there always will be those who do). :)
Sharing a syllabus in first class and having a class discussion.
the first day I go over the course explaining day by day what we will be doing and also all grading procedures. I also give a written copy off this to them
It is very important that you cover the course requirements at the start of class and all during the course because students tend to forget things and stray off into a another world.
Spend time on the first class meeting to go over syllabus, assignments, and resources.
I use a class syllabus and calendar with assignment due dates.
I highlight major parts of my course syllabus. I change font clolor and size and I use bold type fonts. Sometimes I underline words or phrases that I need my students to make note of. I talk about these highlighted sections during the first class meeting.I ask students if they have questions about the requirements that are outlined in my syllabus.
Giving solid explanations of expectations in the syllabus serves as a contract from you to the students in what they can expect from you and likewise, what you expect from them in the way of performance.
I basically "dress up" the original schedule I receive and add different fonts and formatting to make it get their attention.
I also try to give them a list of sections to study and use for reference in their text and workbooks.
Doug
Hi Alexander,
What a great way to break things down for the students! For my lab courses I give the students a daily outline included with their syllabus. Students know up front exactly what is expected of them.
Patricia
I amke the syllabus clear not only with the policies but a layout of every class week by week. This helps the student understand what goals are expected each week for class.
I will go over the objective one by one with students the 1st day. Give examples of things where necessary. and the ask if they have any questions requarding what is expected
I use a syllabus. I spend the first class meeting going over the syllabus and answering any concerns. I ask the students to please take out a pencil and paper and take notes of the questions and answers discussed during that time. I also write the next days assignment on the board at the end of each class. On my assignment sheet for the course, I make a notation as to what percentage of the ctotal grade each assignment is.
We go over the requirements one by one and break them down as a group. i allow time for questions and after I have them sign a document stating that they hae reviewed the requirements, agree with them.
It is imperative that students know exactly what you want for an assignment, presentation, project, etc.Setting guidelines and expectations also reduces stress for the student. It creates a better learning atmosphere.
Hi Elizabeth,
I like how you vary the makeup test to encourage students to take the regular test. Great idea!
Patrici
Hi Ruth,
Super job of making the course requirements clear! You do not leave any stones unturned!
Patricia
My syllabus is as accurate about daily progress expectations as I can make it . I also list on a daily agenda which anatomy diagrams will be quizzed and dates for unit tests.
I try to give complete and accurate directions orally and also on paper for later reference. I also reiterate directions and due dates throughout the term periodically. I don't want to inflict a feeling of confusion on any of my students when just a few moments on my part can make it a little easier. I benefit when the assignments are completed correctly and in a timely manner!
