The 10-Minute Mentor

2011-08-02T16:40:00.001-07:00

This month's Ten-Minute Mentor is how to get started with your classes. It may seem straightforward, but sometimes, we just get busy! Anyway, here are some tips to help you:

Getting Ready

- Syllabus & Assignments complete and posted to Blackboard (or your website)
- Handouts ready and posted
- Welcome Email and Announcement sent/posted
- Blackboard class make "available" (not sure how? Contact TeLS)

Student Engagement

- Conduct Introductions (online or in class)

- Set a climate for learning - be involved

- Get students moving - have them make a decision

- Answer a silly question (or one they already know)

- Play music! Be yourself

- Remember, the most important emotional state is YOURS!

Class Management

- Teaching something the first day - not just read the syllabus

- Answer questions and solve problems early

- Tell students (and re-tell them) to CHECK THEIR E-MAIL

Grades and Assessment

- Make sure to tell (and re-tell) students how to turn in work and what the grade means

- Show them how to open their Gradebook - have them check it weekly

- Return graded work as soon as you can - post grades frequently

- Consider giving a "get out of jail" assignment

Other Stuff

- Know the important dates (last date to withdraw/ last date to turn in work, etc.)
- Advise students of campus /college events - and go yourself!

Remember, you are in charge of your class. Be yourself; have some fun and enjoy your students.

Questions? Please reply to chris.heyer@yc.edu
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The 10-Minute Mentor