EXPERIENTIAL EXERCISE: DEFINING EXPECTATIONS
Instructions
1.
Form learning groups as assigned by the instructor.
2.
Select a spokesperson who will prepare a written summary as well as present the outcomes of your group’s discussion. At the end of the presentation, the written summary of your group’s discussion is to be handed in to the instructor.
3.
As a group, discuss and define your expectations for this course by focusing on the following set of questions. Group spokespersons should summarize the key points, in written form, for presentation during the debriefing session and to be handed in to the instructor. Time allotted: maximum 20 minutes.
Questions
1.
What are your goals for this course? (Examples: to learn more about OB theories and concepts; to fulfill a degree requirement; to get a good grade; to apply learning on the job; something else).
Pass with a good grade (x2)
Gain more knowledge in OB (x4)
Finish school and meet degree requirements (x2)
Apply theories (x2)
Learn from prof’s work experiences
Have a clear communication of concepts
2.
What are some ways in which you can contribute to this course and make it a more meaningful learning experience for yourself and for others (e.g., work experience, other courses in related areas such as psychology, sociology, etc.)?
Participate (x3)
Share relevant past experiences (cultural differences) (x4)
Recognize the material from class in daily life
Bring our current knowledge of HR (x2)
3.
What concerns or reservations, if any, do you have about this course?
Overlap with other courses
Weekly quizzes
The research report (x2)
Unsure of course expectations
Heavy workload
Course extremely hard
Marking unfair

4.
What norms or ground rules should be established to ensure that this course is as successful as possible (e.g., punctuality, mutual respect, coming prepared to contribute to one’s group, etc.)?
Punctuality (x3)
Mutual respect for everyone (x3)
Coming prepared (x3)
Show up
Being accountable to your team
5.
To what extent has the instructor clearly established objectives and expectations for this course? Are there any issues that require further clarification or discussion?
A little more on the exams
Nothing more. Course outline well laid out (x3)
A little more on the debate (x3) and research projects (x2)
Confusion about when things are happening
6.
To what extent are the instructor’s expectations consistent with the expectations that you have for this course and the contributions that you believe you can make?
Prof’s expectations of students unclear
Where do participation marks come from
A discussion of the prof’s expectations of the students would be beneficial
On par with our expectations
More on the research project (x2)
More real life simulations
Seems to have a fair expectation – doesn’t expect us to understand loads of psyc and deep OB
7.
In terms of dealing with any concerns or problem issues (i.e., “pinches”) which may arise in the future, whose responsibility should it be to raise a pinch if and when it develops and how should this be done (e.g., written comments, informal class discussion, individual meeting with instructor, etc.)?
Complaining will accomplish nothing
Individual’s responsibility to discuss with prof if problems (x3) and if effects class prof can bring up in class (x3)
Open communication
Depend on the severity of the situation
8.
Is there anything else that you think is important and should be discussed?
Involve class
So far all is clear
A little worried about how grading is developed