About Me Day 1
On day one of class I inform the students to write me a brief biography of themselves, their families and any personal private information about themselves. This helps me to plan and prepare them on a classroom basis as well as a personal basis. This exercise gives me an idea of what I will be working with within the student as well as assest them and their outside interferance if any. This exercise will help me identify if the student will have any challenges during the course of my class as well as what they are dealing with on the outside world. It also helps me keep them motivated, encouraged and help them maintain a positive attitude, in case these obstacles arise.
Hi Sherrie,
I like the way you lay out your ground rules for the course and how you are going to conduct yourself as an instructor. This tells the students how it is and what they can expect. To me this is fair and establishes the climate of the class. Good job.
Gary
I usually offer a mini-bio related to my professional life, such as the various work experiences related to the material to be taught in the class.I ask the students to tell me what they expect to learn from the course and from me.I then provide my expectations for them.
I usually try not to inquire about the student's personal life/habits because my concern is their performance in class.The only thing I want to know is if they have any pre-set appointments or transportation issues that will impact attendance for the current 4-5 week module.
I am aware that personal issues may impact performance and I try to deal with that as it happens. I do not like to give the impression that I will be sympathetic with one student's situation over another just because it may have more emotional impact. The student issue is not mine to deal with.Everyone has their own
"private Idaho" and my hands are tied anyhow by policies and regulations.
I do let them know that I like to have fun while learning,encourage all questions,will be glad to tutor if requested, and will not tolerate any bullying or ridicule of other students. I am not concerned if you make an A, B,C, or F. My only concern is that you learned something you didn't know before you took my class.
Hi Benjamin,
Good way to get everyone settled into the course and feeling comfortable. This sets the stage for a successful course.
Gary
I find this to be a fun way of getting to know my students. Some times if they do not mind i have them pass it around to let other students read. It is a fun thing to do and the students love it too.
I do almost the same thing. If it is a group of students I have not had before, I will also have them write a bio sheet without their name on it. I will try to match up the bio to which student I believe it pertains to.
