The faculty expectation statement should clearly outline the criteria for success in the course. For example, I establish in the course announcement that students are expected to define the terms and consider both sides of the arguments provided in the chapter as well as examples from the textbook. This ensures that learners understand what is expected of them in the discussion forum and essay assignments. Ricardo Richards
Chad,
This is an important aspect. A few years ago it was not uncommon to hear someone say, "I don't have to go to college for my degree I'll just get it online." There are still some students who approach the online classroom with that misconception. Setting the expectations up front can be helpful.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I feel that it is important to get the point across that just because it is an online course, doesn't mean that it is easy or a "gimme" grade, even though many students think that way. Getting the students to understand that they are going to have to put work into the class is a major hurdle.
Hello Dalene,
It's great to have you participate with us. Thank you for sharing your insights and your comprehensive "Specifics" list. Excellent information.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hello Dr. V -
In my experience with online teaching, the important elements of a faculty expectation statement would be:
Specifics of when assignments are due
Specifics of how assignments should be formatted
Specifics of participation requirements and due dates of participation-related assignments
Specific requests for biographies from each student and from instructor to help instructor and fellow students get to know class members
Specifics on school policies related to classroom management (plagiarism, attendance, etc).
Specific times that instructor will be available for chats, phone calls
Specific times students can expect weekly grades to be posted
All of these expectations can be communicated in a Course Policy statement that students have access to first day of class.
Amy,
Very well laid out. Excellent recommendations. Thank you for your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think there are several things that are important to include in an expectation statement. The first of which are the policies and procedures of the institution (late policy, attendance, a code of conduct, participation, etc.).
Secondly, it is important for instructors to also post the expectations for the particular course (where rubrics can be found, formatting requirements, etc.).
Finally, instructors should post their own personal expectations. As all instructors are going to facilitate a course differently, the personal expectations of an instructor should be listed (best way to contact, when the instructor will be present in the course, etc.).
Yvette,
Yes, many instructors, and schools, accomplish this with posted class announcements, introductory emails, student handbooks, student catalogs, etc. Organization and brevity of putting all of that information into an "Expetations Statement" is one of the biggest parts of the challenge. Thnak you.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Dr. V,
I think the idea of an expectations statement is a great idea, the reason for this is because expectations are so important as they can lead to disappointment on both sides if they are not met.
I think many of us do this already, but this lesson gives it a name for me. In an effective expectations statement I think the basis is the instructor's expectations of the learners, and what the learners can expect from the instructor.
Some of my classmates have written excellent statements in this forum and I do something similar in my classes. I reiterate the school and course policies and my personal expectations and I also let them know what information and resources I have made available to them. I also let them know how to contact me and when to contact me and how I am willing and able to assist them.
Yvette Adams
Deborah ,
These are excellent recommendations. The academic honesty is one that is sorely needed. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Good Morning All
A faculty expectation statement should provide an overview of the academic policies of the institution and provide the student with the basic housekeeping rules of the class (i.e. office hours, conference schedules, etc). The faculty expectation statement should also focus on academic honesty.
Overall the faculty expectation statement should set the tone of the course and include guidelines to assist the students to achieving successful outcomes in the class.
Kimberly,
Very thorough. This is an excellent example of a comprehensive plan. Nicely done.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Great question. I think it is very important to post what you expect from the students (timely papers, discussion posts, respectful environment) but I also post a "What you can expect from me" statement and include items such as :
I will respond to student questions in the "I have a Question" Forum area within 48 hours but typically much sooner.
I will respond to phone calls and email within 48 hours but typically much sooner.
I will communicate in a manner that is clear and professional.
I will post grades within 48 hours of the due date.
Final grades will be posted within 7 days of the end of the course.
I will post a weekly preview/summary.
I will post necessary announcements regularly.
I will be visible in the discussion board area on at least 5 days out of the week.
I will uphold all Academic Integrity standards of our college.
I will treat you fairly and protect your privacy.
I will notify you if there is a reason I will not be available for 2 consecutive days.
I will assist you in any way I can to help you reach your goal of academic success!
ROSA,
Excellent point. Clear, concise and proactive communication to students about classroom expectations is a foundational component for quality instructional setting. Very good. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think it is very important to provide a detailed syllabus on the first day of the online course to the students. In addition, require that they send you an email stating that they are aware or the expectation as students and how you as an instructor will monitor the class throughout the course/term. This should be followed to a T so that the students do not feel as if they are not being properly guided throughout the course. In addition, making all instruction clear is important. Setting due dates is essential as well. Furthermore, answering student email within a 24 hour period will make sure any concerns or questions are answered early on, which will definitely avoid future problems.
Marybeth,
You are right, these are very important. Providing this information proactively can make a significant difference for student success. Well said.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I feel that the important elements of a faculty expectations statement should include all expectations in terms of, the actual course expectations, assignment expectations and due dates,my contact information and availability both online and my office hours. It also provides technical spport information. The purpose and importance of the faculty expectations statement is to let the students know what the expectations are, at the inception of the course and that way the student knows what is expected and can immediately clarify any questions he or she may have in the beginning as opposed to later in the course.
Deborah,
Agreed. Faculty need to approach students in a very open manner with the tools available. Thanks for your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Faculty should give the students their course outcomes expectations, office hours, chat times and anything else that will meet the needs of the student.
Allen,
I agree, totally, for the online instructor to allow students full knowledge of teacher availability and response timelines. The philosophy of disclosing that you have another job is acceptable in some institutions but not in others. I see how identifying the 'day job' could be helpful, especially if it is in the field you are teaching. However, some (a minority) institutions believe students may have a negative impression of a "part-time" teacher. I would recommend clearing it with the administration before providing that information. Excellent post. IQ for your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
