I believe an important element of faculty expectations should be not only what the instructor expects from the student but also what the student can expect from the instructor. For example, what time-frame their emails will be responded to and how long after turning something in will their grade be posted.
Coleen,
I agree on all points. We shouldn't get lost in the mechanics of the learning activities at the expense of the substance. Good post. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hello Dr. V.,
I believe it is essential to clarify expectations, not only related to formatting, but also for content and use of reference materials to illustrate knowledge of the subject matter. Students will vary in their participation and thoroughness of completing an online assignment. Clarification of the grading policy is also necessary to avoid any confusion and to promote better participation.
Coleen Morehead
Amanda,
This is good feedback and a great reminder for all of us when we teach online. We can use reminders just like our students.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Amanda,
Very good. This is a solid foundation. Good post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
That is one thing I do not do as well. I leave all announcements up until the end of the course so that students have access to them; however, I do not remind them of what they are as we go along.
There are several elements that need to be included in a faculty expectations statement. First, the students need to know what you, as their instructor, is willing to do for them. For example, I hold office hours as well as indivudal tutoring sessions. Additionally, the grading practice and assignment return policy should be stated there. Finally, students need a gentle reminding of what the course policies are.
Annabel,
This is an excellent list. I have no doubt it has signifiant impact on student success. Nice work.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hello!
There are several requirements that should be included in the Faculty expectations. The following is a list of items that I have included in my faculty expectations:
1. Information about deliverables
2. Office Hours and contact
3. Behavior and netiquette
4. Plagiarism policy and expectations regarding submissions
5. Participation expectation
6. Make-up work and late work guidelines
7. Course structure
8. Incomplete policy
9. Feedback from the instructor expectations
10. Course research and the use of the online library
Gregory,
These are excellent recommendations. Transparency (as described) and availability by the instructor are key motivational elements for many students. Very good.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think the course expectations is a critical element to student success. In the course expectations, the instructor should reitterate the purpose/objective of the class; as well as, the expectations of the students. Another important element is transparency. I use course expectations to inform students of my grading style, and offer suggestions that will enable them to be successfull in my course. Finally, availability. I think it is important to inform students that the instructors' primary objective is his/her success in the class.
John,
I am always pleased to hear this class and forum has been helpful. Keep pursuing knowledge of online best practices and networking with online instructors as you are, and all will work out. Keep up the great work.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
This being totally new to me, I find this outline to be very helpful. I now what my expectations are in the classroom and classroom management, but not being able to see their faces and understanding why they are enrolled will be a challenge for me.
Lena,
That is the best! Nice job. Thanks for the feedback.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hi Dr. Vaillancourt,
I tend to give feedback all the time. However, some instructors may not give feedback on say a quiz if the student scored well. I do, just because I like to use it as an opportunity to encourage the student to continue to do well.
Lena,
These are all very good things for the students to understand up front. I have not encountered a situation where feedback should not be provided on graded assignments. I am not sure I understand this item. Can you give this forum an example of when this approach is used. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
In a faculty expectation statement, it would be important to mention at least the following expectations:
• When students can expect weekly grades to be posted
• Whether or not any feedback will be given on graded assignments
• Instructor Response Time – Should a student have a question and they email, call or text the instructor, when should the student expect to hear back from the instructor
Rebecca,
You are so right. Clear, definitive expectations are a fundamental component for successful student. Sometimes the fundamental basics get lost in the 'creative' endeavors to enhance the learning environment. Very good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I feel that all expectations should be explained by the online intrutor clearly about everything from posts to due dates, etc. And the instructors quidelines should be stated clearly also. I had taken an online class in the past and it was very difficult due to the instructor not being clear of the they expected.
Carol,
These are very good insights. They sometime take the position that going to college (online) is an a-la-carte activity that can be fit into an already full life schedule - a lot of the TV advertising 'may' be contributing to that. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
