Fall 2004      Microeconomics      Ray Butler

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~  Guidelines  ~
for
"Active Learning"
&
"Cooperation In Our Classroom "



[1] ~ Come to class prepared to 'listen' and 'participate'. Attend class regularly- try to be well rested, alert, and have a good grasp of both the required reading and any optional material that is of interest to you.


[2] ~ Come to class 'on time'. This is very, very important. I will provide you with class info at the beginning of class- project due dates, quiz dates, reading assignments, etc.. If you are late, enter without distracting the presenter or your classmates. I would like to talk with you if you expect to have difficulty coming to class on time. Also, let me know if you need to leave early.


[3] ~ Give your 'undivided attention' to the presenter during lectures, discussions, participation in your 'work teams', and video presentations. This is the 'big one'. No multitasking during class! 'Tips from the Coach':   focus on our work during class; don't snooze and please don't snore if you do; don't talk with other students; address all of your questions to the presenter; don't read the student newspaper during class; study for your other classes somewhere else; read your text book before coming to class, not during class. Finally, try not to daydream about all those things you would rather be doing. Surfing good waves with friends is my daydream and I must admit daydreaming is fun to do- sacrifices, sacrifices,... :>))


[4] ~ Look at the presenter. The emphasis on 'eye contact' may be new for you. Give it a try- it 'works' for both you and the presenter.


[5] ~ Nod or give other tangible evidence of your interest in the message of the presenter- body language speaks loudly.


[6] ~ Rarely interrupt the presenter- consider the 'timing' of your comments, questions, and reactions. A thoughtful and well timed response is welcomed.


[7] ~ Take appropriate notes. I suggest you list both key information for later review, as well as concepts that you find difficult and believe may require additional attention in the future. Good class notes will be useful in preparing for the 'comprehensive' final examination.


[8] ~ Participate in the 'work teams'- your 'EconNet' can be productive and fun; try it, you may like it. Be a team leader.


[9] ~ Get help with difficult material- my office hours are your office hours; make the most out of them. A friendly visit is fine as well. Tutoring is provided by the Economics Department.


[10] ~ Ask questions before, during, and after class. Both summary and clarifying questions are very useful in increasing your understanding of the material.


[11] ~ Ask for additional comments on projects and quizzes. I suggest we talk about your work during my office hours.


[12] ~ Volunteer for optional work. We can talk about the possibilities during my office hours, by e-mail, etc...


[13] ~ Strive constantly to improve your 'classroom performance'- economists call it "productivity enhancement".


[14] ~ Show your awareness of the importance of 'cooperation in the classroom' by sharing your learning techniques with others - spread the word, it works!


[15] ~ Celebrate your achievements.


Econ Coach's Class Participation 'Bonus':
Take the challenge- do a "good job" of applying these 'fundamentals of active learning' in our classroom on a regular basis and I guarantee that you will be a better student for your effort and you will learn more. To qualify for the "Coach's -3%- Bonus" contact me during the first two weeks of the semester and I will fill you in on the details and keep you posted on your progress.

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