Course preparation includes:
- anticipating the needs and expectations of your students
- establishing learning goals
- selecting instructional strategies to support those goals
- deciding how and when to assess student learning outcomes
- detailing this plan in an effective syllabus
- setting the classroom tone for the semester
- being prepared for every class period
Course preparation is a significant component of teaching. Though often invisible to students, thorough preparation is the most critical factor in classroom success.
Planning Your Course
Effective course planning will save you time and effort during the semester by forcing you to make a number of decisions about the course before you begin teaching.
Also in this section: Learn how to become a learner-centered teacher.
Creating a Syllabus
Like a blueprint for a building, an effective syllabus helps explain the details of a course, the intended final products, and the plan to accomplish them.
The First Day of Class
Above all, be prepared and be enthusiastic! You get only one chance to make a first impression.
Building Rapport
Good rapport between instructor and students is arguably the most important factor in good classroom dynamics.