meeting class for first time
when meeting the class for first time I will try to let the class know that i am here for them for their learning and to teach them how it will be in the world .
Hi Pamela,
I wonder why your chair doesn't want you to use that phrase. I use it all the time because that is what I am preparing my students to enter and I want them to understand what is ahead of them as they enter the "real world".
Gary
My chair head never wants us to use "the real world" phrase but it is hard not to.
A first impression goes a long way. You are right, we are there for the students. LEADER-COACH-MENTOR-TEACHER!
Confidence can go a long way – know your subject.
It also lets the students get to know each other so they can see that most have the same general intrest as the other students.
I agree the first meeting is the most important. I take as much time as needed to introduce myself, the course and what we are going to do during the phase.I make them understand that I am no different than they are, only I have done this longer. I find out where each one lives, what they drive and what they would like to do if/when they get older. It is very informative for all of us and I find this helps set up a trusting relationship between instructor and student...no walls.
Having as many as 2 different groups of students a week can be a real challange, Class set up is smooth BUT only having them for only 2 or 3 days makes it tough to understand any special needs they may have. Introduction is my biggest halp in this situation, It helps me "read" the student from there back ground.
On the firdt day after my introduction I have the students tell me a little about themselves and their intersts and reasons why they are here. this generally takes 15 minutes. this allows me to make mental notes for the students. They enjoy telling about themsleves and see that I genuinely care about each individual in that class.This, I feel, brings us closer on a personal level which enables an easier way for the student to feel relaxed in class.
The first meeting is the most important meeting of the class. The students see how serious you are about the class.
