Writing Clear Instructions

Part of learning communication is making sure that students have the information necessary to successfully complete assignments and tests. We want to make sure that we can clearly tell if the student understands the material or has mastered the skill, and not have that judgement clouded by the fact that they may not have had clear instructions.

Most of us are used to giving additional instructions to the class when we meet face-to-face, and students in those settings can ask questions about assignments and get immediate clarification.  Many remote students may need to be reminded about instructions. They need the details already in the assignment instructions so that they understand everything and do not have to wait for you to reply to a question.

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Watch this video by Ivy Tech Community College to learn about five guidelines for creating assignments. As you are watching, think about assignments that you are writing. How can the instructions be improved or written?

How to Write Effective Assignment Instructions (1:56)