I think it is importnat to show students examples of work they will be doing so they have a better concept of what they will be doing in the course. It saves alot of explanation if they can see what you are talking about.
It is important to show examples to your students because it will make them more at ease in regards to what it is they will be doing day in and day out. Students want to feel prepared in what they are about to take on. This step will help calm some of the jitters that come with starting a new class.
Hi Christine,
We should want to do everything for our students to put them at ease, after all this is a learning experience for them. The stress will come...
Patricia
To decrease their anxiety about how to comlete assignments, as well as set clear expectations.
I think showing students examples of things to come in a class gets them excited and invested in the course. I do this on Day 1 as I go over the syllabus and discuss the contents of the course. Students want clear answers on what they will encounter...and in return, what I will deliver to them as their instructor. I try very hard to be clear on this, as well as make them feel comfortable and welcome.
Hi Amanda,
Students need and want direction. We have to guide the type of student we deal with. They truly look to us for guidance.
Patricia
Hi Gina,
I almost always have a very pleasant experience when showing examples. I see that the water becomes really calm. Students appreciate being shown examples. The tension releases.
Patricia
I notcied that whenever I show examples of projects it demystifies that particular project for most students. Not everyone is interested in seeing them but for those who do I always sense a relief. Students love knowing what to expect and what is expected of them and as often as you can help them with expectations the better they feel.
As a pastry chef instructor, I always keep examples of my work, especially complicated pieces for my students to see. The visual helps them grasp the idea and soon they can reproduce their own masterpieces. I also keep examples from many of my students to show them different ideas and methods.
Hi Suzie,
What other benefits have you observed from students by being shown examples?
Patricia
so they have some direction on how the class will go.
MAinly because it satisfies thier curiosity. It helps them to better prepare and plan for the class. They feel more comfortable with knowing what to expect before the class starts. This will usually cause the student to be more inclined to participate in the class and therefore have better success.
Hi Robby,
Absolutely, and they love seeing everything! The other types of learners like being shown examples too.
Patricia
To engage students in the learning process.
I agree with showing variations of projects. I also do this when assigning clinical case studies. That way students have several examples to take from and incorporate what they see fit.
Mariann U
some students are visual learners
Oh wow, this is a great idea showing the different variations of examples. I'll definitely incorporate this. This also cuts down on the number of questions I will receive when asked about the nature or expectations of an assignment.
Hi Mariann,
I love utilizing this approach! Students really get it whenever an example can be shared.
Patricia
I use this approach. When assigning difficult assignements. I hand out assignments from previous classes that were excellent. That way students see what I am looking for.
Mariann U
Hi Stephanie,
Yes, students do tend to get it whenever they see examples. The light bulb comes on. Students appreciate being shown examples.
Patricia
