How to Ensure Students Are Prepared for Class

It’s no secret that many students skip pre-class work, with research showing that 70% don’t complete assigned readings. This lack of preparation can hinder both student learning and class dynamics, making it difficult for everyone to stay engaged and on the same page.

In this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, Nichole Barta, EdD, tackles the issue of unprepared students head-on. Barta identifies the common barriers to student preparation and provides practical solutions to address them. You’ll learn strategies to set clear expectations, show students the value of preparation, and help them build effective study habits—all in just 20 minutes.

With actionable advice for bridging the gap between faculty expectations and student behavior, this program empowers educators to foster a culture of preparation and participation, driving both individual and collective success in the classroom.

Learning Goals

After viewing this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, participants will be able to:

• Identify common barriers that prevent students from preparing for class
• Articulate the value of pre-class preparation to students
• Implement strategies to set clear expectations for student preparation
• Design in-class activities (e.g., quizzes, discussions) that rely on student preparation to enhance learning outcomes
• Develop techniques to help students plan and manage their preparation time effectively

Topics Covered

• Common barriers to student preparation
• Active learning through thoughtful pre-class planning
• Strategies for setting clear expectations
• Ideas for helping students plan preparation time
• Motivating students through assessments

Audience

This program will benefit:

• Faculty and Instructors
• Teaching and Learning Center Staff
• Program Directors
• Graduate Teaching Assistants

Product Code: PM24GA