Expectation: Less focus on theory. Application
oriented course.
Response: We will talk about a few applications.
However, importance of theory cannot be underestimated.
Expectation: My concepts should be so clear that
I should be able to explain it to others.
Response: I will try.
Expectation:
Provide examples during the class.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: Focus on DBMS internals, especially
on resource optimization
Response: We will spend about 1/3 of the semester
on DBMS internals. However, it is not possible to spend a lot of time on any
single topic. You can choose resource optimization as a term paper topic.
Expectation: Provide answer format.
Response: No, I will not. This is not JEE or a
board exam. Your understanding is more important than format. I prefer short, to
the point, logical answers without buzz words.
Expectation: Arrange separate session on problem
solving.
Response: Yes, I will. Most probably a TA will
conduct that session.
Expectation:
Good grades.
Response: Seems like you want your cake before
you bake it! You will get grade as per your performance only.
Expectation: Discuss recent technologies and
developments.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: Do not proceed further until
everybody understands.
Response: I will try.
Expectation: Make class interactive.
Response: When I ask question or suggestion, then
you should not hesitate to respond. That is the only way to make class more
interactive. Feel free to stop me any time during the class if you have any
doubt or question.
Expectation: To be able to deal with DBMS while
in industry job.
Response: We will focus on basics. Product
specific matters, you should learn on your own.
Expectation: Talk loud and clear. Have a smile on
your face.
Response: Yes :-) (See, I have a smile even in my
response.)
Expectation: Classes should be so good that I
should not need book
Response: I disagree with your definition of good
class. No matter how good instructor you have, you will still need book to
understand the topic. If this was not the case, then everyone can
watch
nice lecture videos and understand DBMS.
Expectation: Rather than memorization, exams
should be based on understanding and logical thinking
Response: Yes, I will take care of that. I will
talk with the academic section about the possibility of open book exams.
Expectation: Before teaching any topic, give us
bigger picture about where that topic fits in real world.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: Do not just run slides through the
lecture.
Response: Yes.
Expectation: No extra classes.
Response: I will try.
Expectation: Provide not-on-book experience in
class.
Response: I will try.
Expectation: Being able to use at least one DBMS
product effectively.
Response: This is not the focus of this course.
You have to work on your own.
Expectation: Do not use weird metaphors. Stay
technical.
Response: We will address technical topics
thoroughly. However, occasionally it is good to be non-technical and speak in terms
of metaphors.
Expectation: Clear all my doubts.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: Provide interesting facts and
examples.
Response: Whenever possible, I will.
Expectation: Talk about mathematical foundations
of DBMS.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: SQL, DB Normalization, Query
Optimization
Response: We will cover these topics.
Expectation: Use more blackboard than projector.
Response: I will try. In a class of 90+ students,
it is difficult to do everything on board.
Expectation: Complete syllabus well before time.
Response: Class schedule is already on the course
website. We will follow it as much as possible.
Expectation: Answer doubts with patience.
Response: Yes, I will.
Expectation: Balanced grading. Do not consider
attendance for grading.
Response: Grading depends only on your
performance. Nothing else. It is fine if you do not attend a single class.
However, you must demonstrate your learning through exams, home works, and
quizzes.
Expectation: Enjoyable lectures.
Response: I will try.
Expectation: Arrange separate session for doubt
clearing.
Response: Yes, I will. Most probably, it will be
just before exam.
Expectation: Do not limit your attention to front
benchers and high scorers.
Response: Sure. Everyone is equal in the class,
irrespective of your location or grades. I myself was a LLB (lord of the last
bench) during my student days.
Expectation: This class will not be as hopeless
as previous classes.
Response: I will try.
Expectation: No expectations at all.
Response: Bingo!
To end on a funny note, have a look at this expectation. Surely, some of you still have your sense of humor intact.