Carol,
I use the OWLPURDUE link in my instructions, also. Good point. Additionally, my verbiage to encourage them to use the resources and abide by the required format is to indicate that they may choose to obtain the points for correct submission, or not: "Please remember, it is your choice to follow these instructions and to get the most points for your weekly assignment(s), or not to fulfill the requirements and have points deducted. Please allow me to give you the maximum points possible for your work."
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Carol,
I'm glad this was helpful. We can all use a boost from time to time. Best Wishes.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think when you mentioned the formatting guidelines, I have found it helpful to add links that will help them with that...OWLPURDUE...or another site that perhaps the school is using. The other thing I would mention is that along with those resources, I've begun telling them that their grades will be adversely affected if it is evident that they have not used these resources. Basic formatting errors will result in significant point reduction.
C. Staup
These time parameters are very important! Students sometimes get frustrated when they don't get immediate feedback when they have posted a question or submitted an assignment. Letting them know up front that to expect 24-48 hours turn-around time may eliminate some of that angst. Plus, if it comes back sooner they are so thrilled and have nothing but good things to say about the class and you!!!!
The other valid point was the comment about time expected to devote to the course. Freshmen,especially don't have a realistic idea of how much time the course will require of them. Some hope to keep up with their already busy lives and simply insert a course or two into the mix. I know that prior to enrolling, effort is made to help students understand, but until they are actually engaged in the course, it's difficult for them to really grasp it. It's very helpful to have number of hours per week study time that would be expected so that they can begin to schedule this time into their lives.
C. Staup
Thank you for this thread. This is an area that I grow weak in as the semester progresses. I have similar announcements at the start of the course, but then don't reiterate them mid-way...and the student's tend to get lax on submitting assignments. I think I need to incorporate your procedures. Thanks.
C. Staup
Amie,
Yes, setting high expectations is one key to excellence in education, whether it is online or in the traditional classroom. Very good recommendation.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Faculty need to set the same expectations for the students as they would if they were sitting in a brick and mortor classroom. Students should be expected to participate, to be respectful, and to complete assignments on time. High expectations should be maintained regardless of the instructional delivery method used.
Paul,
You are so very right. The day-to-day modeling of the expectations is critical. Great point!
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Paul,
This is an excellent addition and summation. Thank you for adding your insights to this robust conversation.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
This post has so many good insights and suggestions it was really great. As I pondered on these suggestions, this thought came to me: Class expectations are also set at a much more subtle and subjective level (besides the formal laying out of expectations in writing). Students are very good at psychologically “sizing†up their teachers and the most subtle social cues will tell a student a lot more about his teacher’s class expectations than any stiff and formal document that supposedly outlines class expectations. Any contradiction between a teacher’s values, ethics or attitudes and the formal expectations and you are labeled a hypocrite or worse. So, as with everything, the human element is crucial to success. The HUGE RISK with online teaching is that we tend to forget that, just because the normal, visual, social cues are absent from virtual teaching does not mean there is no etiquette and protocol in chats and forums. We must be very alert to this fact and not only limit ourselves to set class expectations formally but actually follow our own rules and lead by example. Finally, as I said, the human element is crucial, so besides the formal class expectations I think it’s a good idea to greet the class either via e-mail or through the CMS and draft a short little WELCOME NOTE before class starts to show your students you really care about them. I think of that as part of setting class expectations. A nice little welcome note tells the student exactly what he can expect from your class: A positive, tolerant, warm welcoming, teaching environment.
I truly believe that it is very important to clearly and precisely set faculty expectations through some type of formal, written document that includes (as a bare minimum): Appropriate CMS use and relevant CMS guidelines, computer and internet issues (including chat and forum etiquette), make up work and late submission policy, professor and technical support availability (including virtual office hours) as well as the instructor’s contact information, grading guidelines and policy, deadlines, Syllabus and/or course overview, textbook used etc. I think it is important to set all these things in writing, upfront, in black and white and in some type of “official†looking or formal format because, in the past, I have had some very bad experiences when my expectations where not perceived to be very “official†or when they were taken to be a bit “informalâ€. Nevertheless, I also believe that setting expectations is not a one time deal, rather it is an ongoing process that starts with the formal setting of expectations, the first day of class, and then is constantly reinforced and revisited (through a series of reminders and reiterations) as the class goes on.
Lauren,
You are correct. Setting expectations for timely communication and responses are foundational to successful online instruction. Well stated.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think the most important element would be the expectation of when items are to be submitted and if they are late what will be the penalties. I have not taught online, but i have had students in class who have taken online courses and that seems to be their main complaint. Also, just staying in communication with the students. Letting students know that if they send an email or post a question when can they expect a response.
Cathleen,
I agree. In my freshmen classes I repost the same information in several forums (email, discussion, class announcements). The students' contued access is a considerable advantage in the online classroom. Good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Dr. V, I feel that providing a through list of expectations sets the tone for the class. Also, students can return and refer to the list throughout the class.
Bobbi,
Thank you for your comments. I agree. Could you provide some examples of some of the "base line" expectations you would endorse? Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think that all instructors should have a base line on what to expect. Not only out of themselves but the students and other facility as well.
Sarah,
You are very correct. Providing accurate expectations for students can provide a level of security that will help them succeed. Excellent point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I believe some of the basic things like when to expect grades to be posted as well as how to communicate with the instructor and when to expect replies can alleviate much of the initial stress students may feel. Knowing tat their instructor is easily accessible is very important to a new online learner.
Hi Ricardo,
Clearly outlining the criteria for success in the course through balanced treatment of the topic from both sides and modeling with examples is an especially strong approach. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
