Setting the Stage for Success | Origin: ED104
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Class Management Strategies--> Setting the Stage for Success
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I learned about the importance of setting expectations and sticking to them, as to help the students feel less anxious about the new material and to keep the class on track with the course material.
I liked the section about late work and expectations. We just have to be sure our expectations are in line with the school expectations. Regardless of our beliefs, our practices need to be in line with board policy or we're just pissing in the wind.
Comment on Jan Bennett's post: It sounds like you’ve established a clear and structured approach to help students stay on track, which is so important, especially at the start of a course when expectations can feel overwhelming. Providing both a verbal explanation and a written calendar gives students multiple ways to absorb the information and refer back to it as needed. This kind of transparency not only helps them plan ahead but also reinforces personal responsibility.
I like the different color paper and different fonts for the syllabus!
I learned different tips for motivating the students for a new course. As well as the "what I thought was going to happen" vs what actually happens approach, and expectations vs requirements.
I found the idea of changing print, color and font can help highlight areas of interest
If the faculty are not excited for the content, then I don't want them in the class. They will bring down a class faster than anything else.
I'm going to set better due dates outline on the syllabus and go over the expectations right away.
It is extremely important to communicate the expectations at the beginning of course. As a clinical nursing instructor, I find that this helps in decreasing confusion and anxiety in students.
I have done some of this naturally, but it was good to get concrete examples on how best to relate to the students, create interest in the class and manage their expectations.
Posted from Tchelinda Hunter
I learned that you must provide students clear directions and expectations of the class. Provide students opportunity to engage with peers, also when they are asked a question, make their answer sound better, work with them, let them know it is OK to share without expertise.
From this module, I’ve learned that effective instruction goes far beyond delivering information—it’s about connection, motivation, and adaptability. Every student brings unique experiences, challenges, and learning styles, and as an instructor, it’s my role to recognize those differences and create opportunities for success. I found it especially meaningful to learn how empathy, enthusiasm, clarity, and expertise can directly impact student motivation and retention. When students feel supported and confident in their abilities, they’re far more likely to engage and apply what they’ve learned.
I've learned that it is important to have group activity and interaction with each other. We should also set clear guidelines and expectations for the students on the first day of class.
Creating an ice breaker in the beginning and create activities that include teamwork
It is important to establish and set clear expectations at the beginning of the class, review the assignments, due dates, and policies with the students.
Its important to review the syllabus and set expectations to set the students up for success.
Its important to review the syllabus and set expectations to set the students up for success.
It's important that the students understand the "course" of this class. I hand out a calendar showing what chapters we will lecture on and when; when tests and homework are due. In the first class, I go over when assignments are late, and the deduction for late assignments. After 7 days late, the student will receive no credit for that assignment. I go over this in class and give it to them in writing to review later. It's hard for them to remember everything said the first class.
We already engage in "Ice Breakers" as each new class comes in, the biggest hurdle is getting assignments turned in in a reasonable time frame. A set due date for assignments and reducing points value based on how late the assignments are turned in.
