It is helpful to learn that all of us experience the same issues with our students such as late assignments.
Engaging students takes a variety of tools and strategies to ensure their success. Learning from peers and allowing the students to be apart of their learning process can help with the over all outcome. One example is small group discussions after an assignment. Students can interact and glean from one another as well as learn how to communicate their thoughts and ideas in a safe place.
Where and when to set the class standards and how to use a team project as an icebreaker
Many times to break the ice I tell the students to look around the room and ask the location (in general) where the student is living. Then I ask when the students are available for study groups and state different times. Next I ask the students to introduce themself to another student who lives in their area and/or has the same times available for a study group.
Students always need to know and understand the requirements and expectations for each class. When they know what to expect, including any late assignment policies they are able to settle into the class easier with minimal stress. The syllabus is the tool that can help set the expectations. The instructor should be able to completely answer the students questions.
The importance of a syllabus! it helps hold all accountable and is great for visual learners and children with anxiety.
I like the ideas for icebreakers, as well as being warned about the 10%, but it wont always be the same 10%
The importance of having detailed information and how to make it stand out for the students in the syllabus
"Whats in it for me" is not a new concept for me as I was a manager before and adults lean on this one heavy Understanding that my students may/will have this same attitude or outlook isn't terribly surprising but I hadn't put any thought into it playing a part in my classroom/lab.
Creative ways to engage students
Learned the importance of providing expectations such as how the class will be structured, along with examples to help understanding. Also, well outlining how the course will be evaluated in depth in beginning and how to handle missed/late work. Although a small percentage, being fair is needed.
I like that being realistic with expectation and putting those out on the first class can help to set the tone for the rest of the class.
I have learned that providing students course content and expectations through the syllabus is critical. It becomes a plumb line for the student's success in the course. I also have learned that open communication is key between student and instructor and amongst peers to promote teamwork.
Reviewing the syllabus with clear expectations and rationals is always useful at the beginning of a class. I also like the idea of ice breakers and letting the students know WIIFM.
Setting clear expectations early is crucial for student success. The less a student has to question or be unsure about, the more likely they are to feel comfortable and be successful.
This was a reminder of the importance of going back to the basics of setting the classroom and school policies on day one. The syllabus is always a good guide to back up any questions the students might have throughout the course. Ice breakers would set in place right after the orientation and answering any questions or comments that come about. Being clear and maintaining consistency is key.
I like that the ice breaker should involve team work. I also particularly like the example with the paper airplanes that works to show them the value of an expert, teamwork, and greater success. I also really liked the video that talked about making students feel comfortable to share without expertise. I think this is very applicable to nursing because there is so much medical terminology that it is easy to feel like you do not know the right word. The example the instructor gave of how she supports students and helps prompt them towards a more complete answer was something I will definitely be more cognizant of in my classroom.
I have always put important information in the syllabus, but I have not highlighed it with different colors or boxes but I will be implementing this in the future.
It's very to keep the communication interesting so the student will be eager to learn all that's there for them. Be firm in sticking with the course syllabus and make exceptions for extreme circumstances.
It's important to let your students know WIIFM- Getting them involved emotionally with the study material helps students become motivated. By making the course content clear by providing a syllabus and deadlines for assignments, you are showing the students relevancy and application of the content so they see they are preparing for success after graduation.
Covering the syllabus on the first day sets the stage for the course. In the past I have had a quiz associated with it so there is no confusion on due dates and exam days. Ice breaker for introductions and first class to get to know each other.
Comment on Natasha Ramirez's post:
I agree with Natasha, there are always the percent of students that don't follow the deadline.
