As the first required Student Orientation program in August, this is the perfect time for faculty members to help new students understand their role as a learner and express our expectation for intellectual engagement. Potential topics include responsibility for learning, the Honor Code, civility in the classroom, academic problems and support resources, teacher-student interaction, and goal setting. Like previous years, you will be able to shape your conversation to fit your own style and the needs of the students in your group. Student attendance is required for this program and peer Orientation leaders (FROGs) will be of assistance to you. We need 125 faculty facilitators to make this program work, and we hope you will choose to be one of them!
Conversations with Professors takes place on the morning of Thursday, Aug. 21 and it’s your opportunity to set expectations with the newest members of our community about what it means to be a great student. This is your chance to let students know what it takes to do well here. You get to design your session, but we’ll provide you with all the materials and support you need to make this a rewarding experience. All faculty members are invited to lead a session. Click here to learn more: www.jmu.edu/orientation/faculty/cwf_details.shtml
To make your participation in this event as easy as possible, Conversations with Professors will occur on Thursday, August 21, a time that the University has set aside so that you may interact with our new students. No university, college, or departmental meetings or events are scheduled for August 21.
Feedback:
“I just got back into my office from my experience, and it was great. Always a good way to begin the academic year.”
“My experience was fabulous again! The FROGS were exceptional and the students were engaged!”
“The freshmen in my group were very excited about being here at JMU and had a lot of questions! … I really do think it makes a difference.”
“Another great experience. I will continue to do this every year.”
“My session was wonderful for me---the students were engaged and willing to talk about lots of issues relating to their time at JMU--I love doing this.”
Thank you for your interest in the Conversations with Professors program. Conversations with Professors is scheduled for the morning of Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008. More details about the program time and discussion locations will be posted. Click here for further details.
SAMPLE LESSONS!
Professor Santos: Sample Lesson . Sample Quiz . Professor Quotes .
Professor Kyger: Sample Lesson . Professor Notes: "Do's and Don'ts"
Professor Kruck: Sample Lesson . Powerpoint Presentation
Professor Harris: Sample Lesson . Powerpoint Presentation
Examples of Questions Freshmen May Ask
Pictures from this year's Conversations with Professors!