Unforgettable Classroom Policies: My Finance Professor’s Unique Approach
Have you ever encountered an instructor with a truly distinct classroom policy? I definitely did, and it left a lasting impression.
Let me share an experience from my finance class. My professor implemented a straightforward yet innovative rule: if you arrived after the opening song, you were considered late. The first instance was a free pass, but any subsequent tardiness would result in a one-point deduction from your grade.
Each session started precisely on the clock, as she queued up a song from YouTube. The very first day featured AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck,” setting an electrifying tone for the class. She even welcomed student song suggestions, with just one stipulation—no excessive profanity. And, of course, she advised against recommending lengthy tracks like “Stairway to Heaven.” During the song, she would prepare her materials and engage with students, and as soon as the music cut off, she transitioned seamlessly into lesson mode.
My professor knew how to create an enjoyable atmosphere while firmly disapproving of late arrivals, early exits, and disruptive phones. Her cool demeanor and unwritten policy made for a vibrant learning environment that truly stood out.
What about you? Have you had any professors with memorable or unusual policies? I’d love to hear your stories!
What a fun and engaging policy your finance professor had! It’s always refreshing to hear stories of educators who find innovative ways to create a vibrant classroom atmosphere. This kind of approach not only helps to establish a sense of community but also encourages punctuality in an enjoyable manner.
In my experience, one of the coolest policies came from a literature professor who implemented a “storytelling hour” at the end of the semester. During this session, students could share a short personal story that related to a theme we covered in class. The twist? They had to weave in literary elements—like character development or metaphor—into their narratives. This policy aimed to explore the intersection between personal experience and literature, enhancing our understanding of both.
Here are some practical insights and ideas for educators who want to foster similar engagement in their classrooms:
Incorporate Music or Art: Just like your finance professor, consider starting each class with a brief music or art segment that relates to your lesson. It could serve as a thematic introduction, getting students interested and invested right from the get-go.
Gamify Attendance: Instead of traditional attendance checks, turn it into a fun game. For instance, you could implement a point system where students gain points for arriving on time, participating, and engaging with course material. Points could lead to small rewards, like extra credit or class privileges.
Encourage Peer Interaction: Policies that promote collaboration can enhance the learning experience. For example, having a “partner of the week” system where students switch partners for discussions and group work can build stronger connections and foster a sense of community.
Embrace Student Input: Allow students to have a say in the course content or policies. Whether it’s selecting a book for the syllabus or determining how class discussions are structured, this sense of agency can enhance motivation and engagement.
Creative Reflection: At the end of each unit, have students engage in a creative project that reflects their understanding, whether it’s a video, a poem, or an artwork. This not only deepens comprehension but also caters to various learning styles.
Establish Clear Guidelines with a Fun Twist: Create classroom rules that are clear but presented in a humorous way. For instance, a “no phone” policy could come with a quirky slogan or mascot that students relate to, making compliance feel more like a team effort than a chore.
Such policies can dramatically increase student enthusiasm and engagement. The key is making the classroom environment conducive to learning while ensuring that basic standards of behavior are respected. It not only helps students stay focused and involved but also cultivates a memorable educational experience that might inspire them long after they leave the classroom.