Before answering the questions pertaining to what a FYC teacher and student should come to class knowing, it should be clarified to know what class is about first. For the sake of argument, let us say the topic of today’s classroom discussion is revising drafts. In my opinion, the composition teacher should, before coming to class, know exactly how he or she wants to gloss the revision process to the students. For example, what tips and tricks can help the students utilize their time in class most effectively? The teacher should also know how in-class revisions should be structured. Should the students be allowed to revise on their own and ask questions when applicable, or should they work together in pairs or in groups?
I did group workshopping earlier this week and last week, and it was handled very effectively. Our CI allowed her students to work alone or in pairs, and we helped out when needed. Most of the students came prepared for workshop with drafts they were currently revising, while some were less prepared and had little to work on. However, we did our best to help them form ideas for their paper. That said, students should come to class prepared to discuss the topic of classroom discussion.
No matter what it is, even if it’s sitting by themselves and revising a draft, they should come prepared to work and engage themselves in the material. In my opinion, it doesn’t matter if a student is deep in discussion with the instructor and other classmates, or if s/he only poses a question or two about the topic, they (ideally) came prepared.
October 26, 2009 at 4:51 am |
I agree with you that the instructor should always have a lesson planned out before coming to class. Even if the topic goes off on a tangent, having a lesson plan helps to keep the class focused, and will help achieve all the necessary goals for that particular day.
I also agree that it’s vital that students come to class prepared, but we all know how often that happens. That being said, if even a few students are prepared, at least the rest can learn from their peers’ questions and comments. It is most discouraging when absolutely no one has read the assignment/brought anything to work on.
November 5, 2009 at 3:51 pm |
Preparedness, Preparedness, Preparedness is what every and each one of us has been highlighting. Luke, you are no exception as the same fleet is taking us all. (Poetic huh
I don’t know I got that from, sounds Like Shakespeare, arrogance speaking)
Any way, remains to discuss how to make these ideals take place in the real world. We all know that at times there teachers who take it for granted and students who just do not care and do not do any effort to make things easier for the teacher and themselves.