Office of Academic Support

Keys to Good Class Demeanor and Participation at College:

By Matt McCluskey, Coordinator of Academic Support
Whitman 161;  x5678 or x5964;  mmccluskey@stlawu.edu

1.   Arrive to class punctually.   If you have a few extra moments, review your notes for the previous class.

2.  Please, please, please turn off your cell phones and other electronic devices. Also, don't waltz into a class that has    already begun while having a 120-decibel conversation.  Oh yeah.... don't even think about texting.

3.  Bring notes from the course readings to class.  If you have questions or points you'd like to make, write them     down in advance so you don't forget.

4.  Many professors expect you to bring the course readings themselves to class.  Be aware of each professor's      policy and pack accordingly.

5.  Sit up straight and make eye contact with the speaker whenever possible.  Don't ever put your head down or    slouch down in your seat.

6.  Be careful of smirking, whispering to friends, or rolling your eyes. These are quick and easy ways to annoy a      professor. And they DO notice.   Also, avoid excessive whining and zoning out.

7.  Whatever you do, don't start packing up while the professor is still teaching. This is particularly important since      the end of class is often the time a professor brings her entire lecture together and previews the next set of      readings.

8.  Take notees, notes and more notes. After class is over, take a moment to review your notes and reinforce    concepts as necessary.  It's also a good idea to create visuals (e.g., charts, graphs, flow-charts, timelines, etc.) from      your notes.

9.  It's good to talk in class, but it's even more important to be a good listener. That means listening to classmates as     well as the professor.  Again, eye contact is key.  When responding, try to build off what's already been said by the     professor and classmates.  It's also important to really think about what other people say and to be able to back up     your points with more than just opinions.

10. Come to class with your papers stapled, your pencil sharpened, your pen functioning properly, and the right      notebook. Plan ahead.