For our students, consistency is everything. If it is not their first class, they have been exposed to other instructors. Unfortunately, there are good and bad in the bunch. A good impression in the beginning of the class sets you apart from that bad group. If they don't respect you in the beginning, the class will become difficult for the students and instructors. It will be more like pulling teeth for the instructor to get participation and work out of the students.
First impression is the lasting one. It starts the second you enter the class, and it could affect yourstudents attitude for the rest of the course
A first Impression is important when meeting anyone for the first time, let alone a student and instructor. The student needs to feel confident, not only in themselves but their instructor as well. This is crucial in the initial meeting.
It is important to have a positive first impression when starting a new class because it helps students feel good in a positive environment.
You only have one time to make a first impression. A positive first impression is important because it sets the standard for the course.
Edward,
Good point because the first impression is the foundation upon which future interactions and perspectives are built.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first impression sets the "tone" for the whole term.
It is the best opportunity to establish expectations, build excitement and create a positive forward motion.
Kathleen,
Consistency is a must for instructors. If students know that their instructor is going to enforce the policies of the course and be consistent in the requirements then they settle in and start to focus on the course. Also, the first impression is the foundation upon which the remainder of the course is built so it needs to be a good one.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Positive impressions on the first day are crucial and set the tone for how the entire term will be. When your expectations are clear and understood and that you intend for the students to meet those expectations with clearly defined criteria, objectives and goals they will work harder to do well in the class. But you, the instructor should stand by what you have set on the first day.
Due to the fact that it starts you/class off on the right foot.
Gloria,
Well put and this is such an important way to start a new course. This shows the students the standards you are going to expect from them. Having fun with ice breakers and introductions lets them get settled into the class and then you can review policies and expectations which shows them what they will need to do in order to be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Making a first impression is very important. Students are looking to see if their instructor is one who will follow the campus rules or if they will let the students do whatever. If you come to the class prepared, explain to the students all of the expectations there is no gray area of what is expected from them, what they expect from you as the instructor. You have set the mood for the entire term.
Gloria
Making a positive first impression is very important when starting a new class. The first image, presentation, communication is the start of how the students will be motivated about the instructor and class.
Juan,
So true. The first impression is the foundation upon which you build the rest of the class so it needs to be a good one. When the students leave the first class they should be excited about and looking forward to the up coming class sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Alexis,
Great way to open a new course. Your observations and interactions with the students gives you insight that will be so valuable as you plan your instructional delivery.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Roberta,
Great work in setting a supportive tone for the class. By demonstrating your passion for your field and bringing enthusiasm for teaching about it to class each time you are a role model for the students and they will catch your excitement.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is important because how you begin a class will be how you end the class. A positive first impression sets the tone for the class. This also sets the students at ease.
I sit in the class as a student and they have no idea that I'm the professor. I observe the class and their social behaviors while I'm incognito. I successfully get their attention when I reveal who I am. This exercise allows everyone to loosen up and know this is going to be an interesting class.
I greet my students one by one, and display my passion for the subject with lively discussion. I let them know I am accessible for any questions or problems and tell them what I expect of them in order to be successful.
Kat,
Like your plan and way you get students settled into a new course. The results of these efforts I know give students a feeling that they are appreciated and planned for as they strive for success in the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
