Syllabus
Emphasize acquisition of knowledge and skill over mere course credit achievement.
Hi VIRGILIO,
Continue to make learning apply to the real world.
Patricia Scales
I should give emphasis to the grades that they will get if they submit their projects correctly and on time. I should likewise show them an example of work not completed correctly and the repurcussions of these on their grades.
Hi, James. I always explain the course content on the first day. I make it a point to emphasize the individual deadlines for each part of the course and show everybody that this is what is expected of them in the real world out there.
I try to explain to my students that the syllabus is my contract with them. As such it is our (mine and theirs) responsibility to adhere to it. This adds to the clarity of the expectations and helps establish an environment based on fairness. When a student perceives that they are being treated fairly much negativity melts away.
Hi E.,
The syllabus is the most awesome documentation to refer to. When a student plays the card "I did not know," if it is indicated on the syllabus, you can always say we went over that, it is on your syllabus.
Patricia
I do this as well. I also clearly delineate expectations in my syllabus using bolding and different fonts. This way, important issues are eyecatching to the students and they know what to expect. I also put due dates in the syllabus so there is no questions as to when assignments are due.
Hi Rebecca,
Super! I am happy to know that you are sharing this valuable tool with others.
Patricia
Yes, it is worth creating your own rubrics. And that is exactly what I did for the oniine course I deeveloped. Now, the rubruc is captured electronically for future use and sharing with others!
Hi Rebecca,
It is worth creating your own. Keep a hard copy as well as a soft copy of your rubrics as a back up plan in case one set is lost.
Patricia
I agree, rubrics are great! I had a set that I used for the A, B, C, etc paper and I lost them. They came from another faculty menmber.
Hi Rebecca,
I like to use rubrics to ensure grading is very clear. Students have a good idea of what grade they have earned before turning in their work.
Patricia
Hi James,
Great point! I tell my students all the time that proficiency with the skill and the knowledge base are what going to help you the most on the job.
Patricia
Assure that evaluation systems and course assignments with grades and criteria are clear.
