Comment on Asho Ali's post: agreed!
I will adapt how I present my syllabus and how detailed the information on that syllabus is and work on reinforcing deadlines with due and late assignments.
I learned the value of presenting the syllabus to a class as a means of breaking the ice. Additionally, so that the students clearly understand the learning objectives and expectations concerning deadlines.
I am going to do some modifications to my syllabus and use it better. Also hold students accountable to deadlines.
Having a syllabus to and make it clear and concise on the guidlines and expectations for the students for the class.
Having team/group activities and exercises are an effective way to teach. This help learners engage in the material and experience memorable learning opportunities. Additionally, setting up expectations for the course is very important for the success of the class as a whole, paving the way for success on both the instructor and learner fronts.
Find a way to get students to understand how the course will help them in the future. This one is really applicable to me because my courses are designed to help adult offenders avoid coming back to prison. Make the expectations very clear and stick to them. Hold them responsible for the exectations.
By going through the syllabus in detail the first day you give the students a clear picture of what they can expect from the course as well as from you as the instructor. Set clear deadlines to stick to and display them in a calendar using reminders as the dates approaches.
I have learned the importance of setting expectations on day 1 of class, along with providing them with multiples reminders of assignments. This will set them up for success in the course, as long as my part is done with presentation of material and finding way to engage them in the teaching of the material.
I like learning about how to set up your class for success at the beginning with the syllabus.
I think it is key to engage the students from the start. Once you have there focus and attention, they realize the effectiveness of ones teaching strategies. That in its self will push them to enjoy your class and they will see that learning can actually can be fun at times. Yes there will be " boring " times but we all have to endure that at some point in life. I also believe it will gain respect for the instructor and students together.
Including the student's perspective is key to keeping them engage. It starts with the syllabus and keeping them informed on expectations throughout the process.
I will make a clear and concise syllabus for students to understand as well as explain when assignments are due and post a calendar for all due dates.
The most important take away from this section was the importance of setting the first day and viewing it from the student's prepective. WIIFM.
I already use the WIIFM model but plan to be more intentional about it when not only introducing the syllabus but also new course content.
Ice breakers captures attention, making students curios and excited about the topic. Students may feel nervous about participating, especially in technical subjects. Its also a way to have a fun in the class room.
I learned to set goals and expectations clearly at the beginning. I learned some insight on setting up my syllabus and how to review this on the first day. I love a good icebreaker game during the first few days of class to get students comfortable with working with one another.
What I learned from this module is be very clear with expectations and objectives from the beginning. Your syllabus should be thorough and include all of the course requirements, expectations including grades and dress code as well as what we will be doing in the course of this class. Students must function within three categories of learning including, cognitive, social and psychomotor.
Set Goals and expectations right up front, Put the work schedule into the calender and be clear about deadlines post deadlines on the board and remind students throughout about deadlines. Take notes as to what works and what doesnt and make changes based off of that.
My biggest takeaways from this course is 'WIIFM' i.e. clearly giving reason of the content in students' career and life.
