My Syllabus has always just been a one page for each semester, more of a outline. I will be working on spelling out more of what will be expected of the students.
I think the biggest thing so for is more of "Group Competition" I plan to use this strategy to increase participation and learning.
Show empathy but establish clear guidelines at the start of term and stick to them
I learned about breaking the ice at the start of term, when they are their most nervous. Communicating to understand their individual styles of learning and making the syllabus more eye catching so the students remember there is a resource for most problems.
Having an icebreaker at the start of the class can engage students and get their attention. This also can alleviate fears.
I appreciated the information regarding the importance of the syllabus and the need to review it with the class at the start of the term. I have found this to be critically important and I highlight pertinent areas of the syllabus that students tend to question. This can help prevent problems later in the class.
I think it's important to set clear boundaries and expectations from day one. Students have to be willing to put in the time and effort if they are to succeed. Pushing our students to be studious and efficient, will help them be successful in the workplace.
Good communication so students understand your expectations of them in the classroom.
I liked how it outlined to be explicit when explaining what you expect from the students and to be reminded to give examples.
Comment on Shelley Freshman's post: I also use this method as an ice breaker. I go around the class and have everyone introduce themselves and give a little information about what they work and why they are back in school. I also introduce myself and provie some background information on my professional career.
I have learned how to incorporate what I have learned by being available for my students. I know that dedication is key. Keep students engaged, sell the course. I know I would not buy into anything if the representative does not believe in what they are selling. Transparency also plays a part in building trust.
With many years of teaching experience till now, this module had increased my knowledge and awareness in the field of education. I have learned that in order for me to become an "Instructional Delivery Expert," I have to examine myself first as an instructor. I have to ask myself, "Am I a SME (Subject Matter Expert) and/or IDE (Instructional Deliver Expert)? By asking this question, I myself will be motivated to expand my knowledge or horizon in the field of teaching. This module had given me some tips and ideas on how to lead and conduct my class so that my students will get the best education possible that they badly needed.
Useful information about information to add to our Syllabi and how to get students more interactive in class. How to better explain expectations/requirements.
Having a very colored syllabus with goals and deadlines marked. Go through the syllabus together with the students to avoid surprises about goals and expectations. Also, to see the students perspectives of the syllabus and course is very important. Another point is to have them working in groups or with peers, so they can feel support.
Excellent and useful information.
i find that i am using many of these ideas , but just need to tweek a bit..
going over the expectations and the course syllabus at the beginning of the course is important and can be done in a way that incites energy and fun into the class
Presenting syllabi in multicolor text and paper to increase attention and retention are a great tool I picked up from this course.
Basically my objective is to represent the positive outcomes of the course and how exactly what the student will be learning will track with their future. I agree with clearly laying out the course objectives and deadlines, maybe crossing completed items off as they are done. i did like the idea of breaking the room down into groups and applying exercises to engage those students that are more introverted or disinterested.
One of the hardest challenges I’ve experienced so far is finding a way to make the class purposeful for all students and keeping them engaged. I found found that group “think tanks” are the most beneficial way to keep the student engaged even if it’s just for 15 minutes a class. It not only facilitates collaboration but it opens that students mind to relevancy of content even when they did not see how the information would help them achieve their personal goals.
