A fun first class or first 20 - 30 minutes
I definitely have found that depending on how the first few minutes of class turn out, the students make their mind up on whether or not this is going to be an enjoyable semester. I definitely try my best to get a few laughs and break the ice a little on the first class.
Hi Dr. Meers,
I've thought about the kind of instructor I want to be, and the kind that I have to be. Because of the huge amount of knowledge and skills taught in my courses, I will have to assign homework every week to reinforce what we do in class, and I have to give weekly tests, which I am calling quizzes so as not to frighten my students. So some of my students may groan and complain anyway. But I want to be a caring and helpful instructor who is available to my students and teaches them the tools they need to succeed. I'm hoping the 2nd part shows despite the work load I'm piling on them. -Jeanne
Hi Jeanne,
You have had so many different experiences with instructors that you can quickly develop comfort with your students and how you are going to present the course content. Think about your instructional persona. How do you want to come across to your students? You are a new instructor so there is no talk among the students about how you teach. You are an unknown so take the "clean slate" you have and be the most dynamic and inspiring instructor you can be while developing additional skills in your presentation expertise.
Gary
I remember seriously considering dropping a class because the instructor told us if we didn't have all of our materials by the 2nd day of class, we could not earn an A in the course. I had straight As and did not want to mess that up, but I had ordered my stethoscope on-line and might not receive it before the next class. I couldn't afford to buy another one at a nursing supply store either. I spoke with the instructor after class, and she was reasonable about it.
Students expect a clear picture of what your class is going to be like, they want to know what is required to get the grade they want, they want to know if you will be reasonable and fair, and they want to enjoy their experience. I've gone into a class that I dreaded taking because of my technophobia, but then discovered it was presented in an easily understandable format with a helpful instructor. I've also taken a class that I was really looking forward to, only to have it turn into a boring class where the instructor didn't relate the subject matter to current events, continually got sidetracked from the topic, and did nothing to keep students from talking through her lectures. She never asked us questions, and she openly resented it if we questioned the way a test question was worded.
I think if we introduce ourselves with a bit of humor and warmth, have a detailed syllabus, make our students feel welcome and that they can succeed in our class, we will have accomplished a full first day's work. -Jeanne
Navinthran,
Yes I feel the same way, students make up there minds within approximately 15 minutes in but you can change their mind by switching things up and being able to think on your feet. I have changed the beginning of the same class at a community college ("CC") taught on the same day because I noticed a number of Latino students in the class. I was teaching a business class and decided due to the very visible demographics in the classroom that I was going to bring in more current events about businesses owned by Latino owners or run by Latino's. This seemed to become a great motivator because many of them were stating when we went around the room about the lack of Latinos in business. I stated that there were and they just needed to see it. I since that semester have evened out the class with a diverse demographic owners and those who run the business across the entire course. I feel the course seemed more dynamic and more interesting and I am glad I had that group of students to open my mind and eyes to include a more variety when I include things for learning.
Carolyn
Patricia - I agree, but am aware of the dangers that go hand-in-hand with humor. I think I use it well, but it can backfire, potentially offending a student, or lessening the instructors credibility. 10+ years of practice has minimized this for me, but I wouldn't say has totally eliminated the risks. That said, I can't imagine teaching without a great deal of humor in my own style.
It also gives you a good idea on what to expect from students in the first 20 minutes. This could be with who is late, how they respond at class time, and if they like your sense of humor. Nothing worse then on the first day of class hearing on the crickets.
Humor can definitely help relieve tension for the instructor and the students. Humor does not mean that goals and objectives can't be provided for the students. Many learn better in a relaxed atmosphere.
