First Time Instructor
Teaching for the first time can be very frightening experience.
First, you need to have all material ready,and have a postive attitude that everything is going to be just fine.
Second, While explaining the contents of the course, you should display some humor to break the ice and get the class involved.
Third, I would find out what are the expectations of the students, likes/dislikes so I can set a nice enjyable environment.
I am also very nervous about teaching my first class, however, I think I have gained some valuble information from this course and I will use my sense of humor to break the ice and connect with my students
Try Google. Ice Breakers.
Dr. Meers-
I personally feel that ice breakers are a good idea, but I have noticed that being a new instructor, they think they are stupid and not worth doing...any suggestions on some good ones that are out there that I can try for next quarter?
Thank You!
Wise words! Being courteous and respectful sets the tone for the classroom and also affects how students interact with each other. As instructors, our passion and enthusiasm will help to generate interest in the subject. Admitting when we don't know something shows a level of integrity, making sure that we find out sets a powerful example and demonstrates competence. Sharing real life experiences helps the students to relate to us and see that we are indeed, human. Finally, explaining why students need to know aht we are teaching helps to give them ownership in the material that is being presented.
Be courteous and respectful of all students, always.
Be passionate and enthusiastic, always.
Don't be afraid to say you don't know something but you'll find out.
Give your own real life experiences that pertain to the subject matter/objectives of the lesson. Students really listen up from your own experiences.
Always explain WHY students need to know what you are teaching. It's not only about How to do something, but WHY! Why are we doing this in a particular way? What are my options for variations of the basic theme....and the quest for knowledge goes on.
IN THE MIDST OF FIRST TIME JIDDERS, THE INSTRUCTOR SHOULD CONCENTRATE ON THE STUDENT'S NEEDS, BODY LANGUAGE AND BE A GOOD LISTENER. THIS WILL TAKE THE FOCUS OUT OF SELF. ALSO WATCHING FOR THE DIFFERENT PERSONALITIES OF THE STUDENTS HELPS TO KNOW TYPE OF ENVIRONEMENT NEEDED IN THE CLASS ROOM.
Hi Sarah,
You can answer what you know and let the students know what you don't know. If you get an answer that you can't answer tell them so and tell them you will get the answer by the time the class meets again.
You are going to be great. Don't let the nerves get you.
Gary
I totally agreed! I was excited initially, but as the time gets closer to my first session, I am so worried. I'm afraid that I won't be able to answer the student's question.
Hi Geraldine,
Yes, it will. How this all will be done is up to you. You need to have a plan laid out for how you are going to conduct the first class meeting and establish yourself as the class leader. Through the student introductions and ice breaker activities you will have the opportunity to get settled into your new role and start to develop a relationship with the students. Be a keen observer and listener to what the students are saying and how they are conducting themselves.
By being well prepared and highly organized you will be able to concentrate on your students and not have to worry about what you are going to do next. Develop the course syllabus in such a way that it explains goals, objectives and activities that will be undertaken in the course. Show expectations for the students. You will find that by doing this the students will relax and focus on the course. This way the rest of the course you can concentrate on sharing the content and developing rapport with them. These are the big rewards to teaching. I wish you the best.
Gary
I am embarking on a new career direction as a clinical instructor and want to prepare myself to face students. I am confident in my knowledge base but know I need to have an appreciation for the position my students are in and level of need and expectation from me. This I asume should be accomplished in our first class meeting.
Hi Donald,
Thank you for the kinds words. I wish you much success in your teaching. Let me know how your implementation of these different strategies work for you.
Gary
This is all great info that I plan to use when I get done with training.
Thanks,
I agree, in order for the class to be successful and to be a successful instructor, you NEED to know the expectations of the students also
Hi Dora,
"Ice breakers" are a very important way to start a class. You are right about how if helps to set the students at ease and get the class off on the right foot.
What are some ice breakers that you have used with good results?
Gary
Breaking the Ice is very important. That will put the students at ease, and know that they can trust you to ask questions.
