Tena Crews

Dale and Clovis,

Thanks for continuing the conversation. Keep your sharing your experience and ideas.

Dale Mancini

Clovis,
I think it all starts with the expectations. You have to be very clear with your expectations with regard to assignment due dates, discussion participation, etc., etc. If you have clear expectations and they are properly communicated, then enforcing the rules is pretty simple. You have to be clear. You can not deduct late points for an assignment, if you don't communicate your late policy. That is not fair to the student.

Tena Crews

Scott,

Consistency is the key. Keep it up.

Thanks!

Scott Mensch

Before class starts the class policies es are well laid out. What is even more important is that they are constantly and consistently followed!

Tena Crews

Monica,

You are right. Many times what we do depends on the course content and the level of our audience. But, if we can involve the students and get their "buy in" - the better. Thank you.

Monica Heymann

Depending on the subject matter, I've also found it helpful to allow adults to help create the agenda. When adults feel somewhat in control of driving the
conversation they are more likely to buy in to the program as a whole

Tena Crews

Sara,

You bring up some very good points and I'm thrilled you answered your own questions and have helped others through your postings. Thanks again.

Sara Fine

Hi Dr. Crews, Clovis, and Colleagues, :-)

Working with adults is different in many ways than working with children. For the most part, children will listen to rules mainly due to the adult/child dynamic. We find ourselves in an egalitarian relationship of sorts when working with adults. Although we are in a position of authority, we are chronological equals. We can no longer say you need to do this because I said so. How do we then enforce rules with adults? I make the rules clear from the beginning of the term - either my own rules, or those in the student catalog. My adult students know that there are consequences for not following the rules, i.e., point deductions, zeros, contacting administration. I am extremely fair, however, and take circumstances into consideration when a rule hasn't been followed. I believe that when adults know you are fair with them, they're more likely to follow the rules.

Best,
Sara Fine

Tena Crews

Clovis,

How do you do this?

Input from you will truly be appreciated.

Thanks!