Hi Tram,
The syllabus is definitely the document to provide great clarification.
Patricia Scales
I am in technology and I would use the projector that projects my computer screen. Since the students are going to get their syllabus from a portal site the first thing is to direct them there. I will bring up to the screen and go over it highlighting key points. To sight examples that can be explain visually I might go to the whiteboard and diagram it out. For example where there are projects draw up on whiteboard a network diagram representing the project to be done with a brief summary what the purpose of the lab and how it will apply to the real world. I also make use of the whiteboard for reminding them the topics for day or any work due. As well make use of electronic calendar that they have access to. So, test, quiz and homework are all posted there.
I give examples for each requirement. For example if a final project is part of requirement I will suggest ideas or if a test grade is 20% of final grade I will give a student scenario for student "X".
Make cleearly on the syllabus, answer all student's questions
I rely on the syllabus extensively.
I have learned to take the time to create a very detailed course syllabus. Then, at the beginning of every class, start with a quick review of that syllubus so that everyone knows where we are and where we are going. And especially, when the next tests are and what topics they will cover.
Hi Stacey,
You have double coverage to ensure clarity. They surely cannot say they did not know.
Patricia Scales
Hi Ellen,
You provide great clarity to your students. Your students cannot use the excuse they did not know.
Patricia Scales
I utilize both the syllabus, and the online portal. This way, they do not have any excuses if the lose or misplace the syllabus.
I use the syllabus and then also provide my expectations. I also outline my policies on grading and late assignments so they know ahead of time exactly what I expect from them.
Hi Johanna,
The syllabus is certainly a great document to provide clarity.
Patricia Scales
I use my Syllabus and Calendar to keep students on track. I review at the beginning of each new course, disuss with class. Also as each assignment comes along I review it again to ensure
each student is comfortable with it and understands.
The syllabus is what I use. It details all expectations and requirements for the course, as well as learning objectives, amounts of time required for both in and out of classroom activities and assignments.
Hi Bernadette,
The calendar works beautifully, and it gives the students an additional document to reference.
Patricia Scales
Hi Tami,
You are right! When clarity is provided, it is a win-win situation for both the instructor and students.
Patricia Scales
Hi Jeanne,
Absolutely! It is always good to have a question/answer session after you go over the syllabus.
Patricia Scales
I begin a course with the syllabus, and then each day write the expectation of the day on the white board. But in reading some of the post I think I am also going to implement the calendar idea. So at the begin of each course my student will have a daily break down that is easy to manage. It will make it clear what is expected everyday. Thank you for the idea.
I will make an additional flyer after this course that outlines important information about the course. I want to make it simple. I will use colored paper and review. The grad clinic is different than regular clinic and sometimes at first there is some confusion. We review all of the course the first day but a flyer with important points will help. I'll also have them in the clinic for viewing.
It also helps the instructor stay on tract for the class
Following the syllabus is good, but be sure to allow students free time to discuss any issues or concerns.
