Task 7: Orientation
Getting to Work

(The Plan of Attack for this task is simple: Review and adapt the provided example materials.)

Remember that this presentation should feel like orientation to a new job, not like school; the goal is to draw them into the scenario, making it feel real and motivating them to take it seriously.

Resist the urge to present a lecture, e.g., on basic concepts to be covered in the course; students will learn such material best when it’s contextually relevant.

The presentation should clearly convey your expectations for (team and individual) effort and performance.

If your course involves significant team work, consider including one or more team-building activities during orientation.

After creating the presentation, we suggest that you give it to a group of your colleagues, as if they were students, for feedback on its completeness, comprehensibility, level of coverage, and length. Note their comments, and especially their questions, and edit your presentation accordingly.

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Updated: June 23, 2005