I always have the students follow the syllabus so there are no questions as to what is required.
The 1st day of class affords me the opportunity to explain the grading system, attendance requirements, due dates of projects, tests, and conduct expected in the class room. Once the ground rules are established each student knows exactly what is expected and when projects are due.
To help my students to get a better understanding about aasigned work, is that making sure I put on the board all assigned work in the order I will explain to them.Also I make sure that they receive a syllabus for all their expectations they will receive for that particlar course.
Using guided notes are my most favorite because it allows the students to focus on the discussion at hand and not miss important points because they are busy taking notes. I follow the guided notes very closely.
I personally believe in the idea of supplements to the syllabus. For example, the classes I teach include an online component of the class: the forum. I created a handout that is specific to the expections of and the reasons behind the expectations for the forum. I also take the time to go through the syllabus and all supplemental materials on the first day of class. I hand out the papers and upload them onto the class portal .
One thing I have learned from this class is the importance of providing examples for the students. I agree with it and plan to incorporate this moving forward. Using my example from above, I will now include an example of a "good" and "bad" forum answer.
Using the syllabus objectives as a guide, I insert my professional work experiences emphasizing the technical components of the job. Describing the "hands on" portions and explaining that this is exactly what the students will be doing every day in their chosen field helps to keep it all relevant to them.
Hi Debra,
Give students a THOROUGH explanation on Day 1 what is expected of them.
Patricia Scales
To date, I have used the course syllabus only. After taking the first part of this course, I can see that I need to expand upon the syllabus a bit. Doing this will help to prevent some issues around class tardiness as well as passing in assignments on time.
Highlighting and spending time to clarify those two specific areas (which seem to be ones in which I need reinforcement) is something that I am definitely going to include in the first day of my class.
I currently have used the syllabus only. After completing the first section of this course, I realize that I need to use the syllabus and also expand a bit upon it as well. I can see that by doing so, I can better clarify my expectations and prevent some problems with tardiness and assignments that are handed in late.
Hi Judith,
You are very thorough with making your requirements clear. Your students can't say that they did not know. You cover a lot of ground in ensuring clarity.
Patricia Scales
I use a "standardized" syllabus that covers basic questions about grades, textbooks used, general policies about attendance and absence, late assignments, and a few paragraphs that discuss what the course is about. I verbally address any differences with the written syllabus and the current class -- usually minor. I also hand out a course outline that shows visually what is going to be covered every day, with the homework assigned and due dates. The course outline also shows the quiz and test dates, plus final exam dates, so that students can plan ahead. I repeat the information about an upcoming quiz or test in class, and record it on the board also.
I use my syllabus for making my course requirements clear for the students. I go through it with them on the first day of class and tell them what is expected of them not only for the lecture part but also the lab portion. This way they know exactly what their requirements are and if they have any questions, I ask them to ask at that point so that I can go over them with them. This seems to work very well for me.
I like to do the same. I always introduce myself and talk about my background. I think that it is important for the students to know where I come from and where my interests lie.
Going over the syllabus in the first class is inmportant as the student needs to know what is expected as the syllabus is an agreement between the students and the teacher, so let's start out with agreement!!!
Hi Tracy,
I too like to give my students a couple of reminders. We are really in the business to help the students succeed.
Patricia Scales
I review the syllabus with them and and then throughout out the semester will review items again as they are getting closer.
I use the syllabus which clearly outlines the requirements. Prior to starting new content I will define the requirements that pretain to that particular chapter/unit.
Hi Stacy,
A syllabus is certainly a tool for ensuring clarity to the students. A well written syllabus is a lifesaver.
Patricia Scales
I use the syllabus to make the requirements clear to the students. All the assignments are listed with a discription and the due date. We go over them on the first day of class so I can answer any questions the students may have.
Hi Kristine,
The syllabus is certainly the "Ultimate Guide." I especially like how you share the weekly update as well.
Patricia Scales
i give students an over all syllabus and give then a weekly update syllabus as well in case of changes
