Fist Day
On the first day of class I presented myself to the class, by shaking everyone's hand and told them what type of experiance i had to teach the class and i wanted to know what was there education goals and how i was going to help them get them there.
Geoffrey,
I like the first day of class as well because we are getting familiar with each other and are working on the relationships that will be created in the coming class. I like your use of the pretest that at the end of the course is a graphic reminder of where they were and where they are now.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I think this is a great idea. I actually enjoy the first day of class. There generally is a sense of excitement as both myself and the students get to know each other and what they can expect to learn from the course. One of my favorite activities is to hand-out a pre-test. It is something to see the students on the first day staring at the questions with no idea of the answer, and then by the end of the course being able to answer the questions without much hesitation. It demonstrates to the students how much they have learned, and many take a sense of pride in their knowledge.
Hi Timothy,
By being clear about student expectations and what you are bringing to the classroom you lay a solid base for how the course is going to operate. This helps to get the students settled into the course and ready for what is going to occur over the next several months.
Gary
In addition to creating a welcoming classroom environment, I think it is essential to begin with clear, high expectations - both my expectations for the students, and what they can expect from me.
I think this is such a good thing to do in class on the first night. It let's the student know that your truly interested in them.
I have them write down why they are here and what they hope to achieve and then I save it to the end of their 13 months of classes and we read them again. Introductions are made and something about their work backgrounds. Something personal if they wish, and of course I share my professional background also.
I think thats a great idea. On the first day i usually have my students introduce themselves, then I do the same and congratulate them for making such a great step toward their future, then I give them a minni tour. This usually puts thm at ease.
The first day is always rough. I think that keeping a smile and encouraging questions during the first introduction period is what breaks the ice for the anxiety.
Hi Daniel,
This is a great way to set the stage for the upcoming course. The students are made to feel welcome and know they have a caring instructor for the course.
Gary
