syllabus preparation is provides the best first impression for student success
I think one of the most important strategies for classroom management is several things that were mentioned in the text prior. I definitely believe in going over the syllabus thoroughly and have more often than not caught myself saying "it's in the syllabus" when asked a specific question about the course. I also believe that it is really important to set clear expectations from the beginning and let students know what to expect, and even when to expect things that may be more fun. This will promote a version of "buy in" that the text was discussing earlier.
It is always good to have an ice breaker. I like the paper airplane idea. It is always good to have methods to introduce new concepts in a unique way. It keeps the students engaged about what is coming next.
students want to know WIIFM(what's in it for me) also it is important to make expectations clear
Clear due dates clear start and finish of the class
Ice breaker are the point to start a new class
Clear presentation point of the class, ice breakers, syllabus discussion and clarification. Clear set point for grading
I learned strategies to grasp and hold the student's attention in the syllabus and not bore them with un-needed information.
Give the students something to look forward to and have them be engaged. Share stories, etc.
Set up your expectations at the beginning of the class and work with students to meet the expections. With regards to assignments, remind stundents constantly so you don't have any surprises at the end.
I have learned that it is very important to break expectations down into smaller sections for students to be able to process and understand. Students appreciate knowing what is expected of them.
I will take the first two days of class to do ice breakers, go over classroom expectations and the syllabus. THis will help me learn their particular learning styles, will help them get to know each other and will make sure they understand what is expected of them. I will also continue to mention these things throughout the semester as a reminder.
Be responsive, and icebreakers will be useful.
Comment on Shelley Freshman's post: I like your idea. This helps students "get to know" someone new, practice acute listening skills and then express to the class what they've learned about the other student.
The syllabi is very important for students to be aware of expectation necessary to pass the course, know expectations and what they have to accomplish. Making sure the due dates for assignments are accurate and posted in the syllabus.
The more you engage students the more they can feel empowered. Setting clear goals and dates for assignments will help keep both you can students on schedule.
I will remember to give multiple reminders of due dates and put them in multiple places in the syllabus to remind students of the date. I will also set clear boundaries and consequences for late assignments.
Comment on Ronnie Tobias's post: I like the what's in it for me approach will help them be more engaged in the classroom.
I always review course expectations and policies like penalty for late work, missed exams, clinical attendance, etc the first day and put certain reminders on my calendar. I also enjoy asking on the first day why they chose nursing.
There were several helpful takeaways from this lesson. One was that the syllabus should be written very clearly. It should give a detailed description of the course. The syllabus should be specific about the objectives and goals of the course, The students should also be aware of how they would be evaluated during the course. Additionally, helpful tips regarding the need to review the content of the syllabus during the first class, as was the need to establish policies for communication and submission of assignments to include variables such as Late assignments
