Originally Posted by
Darrell KSR
After having so many students over the years not read the syllabus I prepare, and having numerous questions and "issues" arise over time that were answered by the syllabus (had they bothered to read it), I came across the "solution."
A one page "Contract" for the students.
The "Contract" contained basic recitals and an understanding and agreement, where the students acknowledge certain things--
Like they are responsible for checking the Blackboard prior to every class, in case of a change in the schedule. Happens rarely, but almost always happens once or twice in a semester.
Like they are responsible for knowing when the exam dates are.
Like they are responsible for knowing what the missed exam policy is (very lenient--no excuse necessary, but a comprehensive final exam will be substituted for the missed exam). No make-ups.
Like my contact information is given to them, including my personal cell phone where they can call or text me anytime, and my email that goes to my phone, in addition to the university email, which is checked less frequently.
And most of all, that they understand they are to check the Syllabus to see what the policy is in a given situation prior to requesting some variance of that policy, which is unlikely to be granted. I'm flexible, but have developed lenient policies over the years that work for me and the students, and generally see no reason to modify that. (And the Syllabus contained all the other information--the Contract just reinforces that the Syllabus contains this information, and they understand that and agree to read it.)
Anyway, the "crux" of the "Contract"--and why I thought it might work -- is that I am giving 10 "Bonus" points (I give no bonuses throughout the semester, so this is it) -- if they read it, and return it to me, and have two additional class periods to turn it in to me, in person, in class. That assures me that a) they have had ample opportunity to read it; b) they have an opportunity to make a copy of it; c) they will not only be at the first class where I give that to them, but at least one of the next two class periods so they can get their 10 bonus points.
So....it took all of about 12 hours for the first student to email me--
"I have a vacation planned, so I'm going to miss class Monday. Can I email it?"
(Contract says it must be presented in person. She didn't read it.)
Answer: No.
"If I can't email it, can I bring it in on Wednesday instead of Monday?"
(Contract says they have two additional class periods to present it. She didn't read it.)
Answer: Yes. But I didn't answer it. I asked her to read the contract, which answered both questions.
Sigh.
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