CEE - Communicate Learning Expectations--STEP 2

Effective communication of expectations between faculty and students is foundational to the success of any educational endeavor. It sets the stage for a clear, structured learning environment where students understand what is required of them and are better prepared to meet those expectations. This is crucial not only in the context of syllabus development but also in the broader scope of teaching and learning interactions across various platforms and settings within higher education.

In this guide, we explore a step-by-step approach for faculty to articulate their expectations clearly and effectively to students, focusing on the creation of measurable learning objectives, aligning activities and assessments with these objectives, and providing meaningful feedback. By emphasizing clarity in communication, faculty can enhance student engagement, facilitate deeper understanding, and ultimately improve academic outcomes. Whether through lesson planning, assignment instructions, or interactive discussions, the principles outlined here aim to support faculty in fostering an educational environment where both teaching and learning are optimized for success.

Step 1: Establish Clear Learning Objectives

Begin by determining what you want your students to learn in each lesson, unit, or activity. These learning objectives should be derived from the broader course goals and outcomes but tailored to the specific content and skills you are teaching at the moment.

Example Objective: "Identify and explain the key factors that contribute to climate change."

This objective is precise, focused on a specific skill (identify and explain), and related to the content (key factors of climate change).

Step 2: Make Objectives Measurable

Ensure that each learning objective is measurable by incorporating verbs that indicate observable actions. This clarity helps students understand exactly what is expected of them and how their understanding will be assessed.

Measurable Objective: "Analyze case studies of successful sustainable development projects to identify common characteristics."

This objective is measurable because it requires students to perform a specific action (analyze) that can be observed and assessed.

Step 3: Communicate Expectations Clearly

When presenting the learning objectives to students, do so in a way that clarifies the expectations. This can be through verbal explanations in class, written instructions on assignments, or feedback guidelines. Ensure that the language you use is accessible and understandable to your students.

Communicating Expectations: Use class time, online forums, or written materials to explain the objectives. For instance, "In this unit, we will analyze several case studies on sustainable development. I expect you to identify common characteristics among them that contributed to their success."

Step 4: Align Activities and Assessments with Objectives

Design learning activities and assessments that directly align with your learning objectives. This ensures that students have the opportunity to practice the skills or apply the knowledge required by the objectives.

Alignment Example: For the objective about analyzing case studies, you might assign a project where students select a case study, analyze it according to the criteria you've discussed, and present their findings in a report or presentation.

Step 5: Provide Feedback Based on Objectives

Offer feedback that references the learning objectives, helping students understand how well they've met the expectations and where they need improvement. This feedback should be specific, actionable, and directly related to the objectives and assessments.

Feedback Example: "In your analysis of the sustainable development project, you did well in identifying the key characteristics of success. However, to improve, try to provide more evidence to support your analysis, as discussed in our objective."

Simplifying the Communication Process:

Define What Students Need to Learn: Clearly articulate the specific skills or knowledge they should acquire.
Ensure Objectives Are Observable: Use action verbs that make it clear how learning can be demonstrated.
Explicitly State Expectations: Tell students exactly what you expect them to do to meet these objectives.
Use Assessments That Reflect Objectives: Design activities and assessments that provide students with the opportunity to meet the objectives.
Give Objective-Focused Feedback: Offer feedback that helps students understand their performance in relation to the objectives.

Now, Work on Your Objectives

Following steps 1-5, you can effectively communicate your expectations to your students, ensuring that learning is focused, measurable, and aligned with educational goals. This approach enhances transparency in teaching and learning, facilitating a more engaging and practical educational experience for you and your students. If you would like help with this, please get in touch with an instruction Consultant. We will be happy to help you.
Now, GO TO Step 3... Taking Attendance is important.

Dive Deeper

- - Please check our Writing Effective Course Objectives~ An Introductory View for more resources concerning creating course objectives.