Meeting the Class
I always introduce myself to a new class, and write my name on the board. I also give a little bit of my professional background. I also let the students know that I am here for any queastion and they can ask me questions at any time.
Is there such a thing as not giving enough of a professional backgound?
I do the same when meeting a new class. I introduce myself, Give backround on Myself, and let the students know i am always available to them for any questions they may have. I think this helps create a good first impression, and makes the students feel comfortable in the classroom.
Hi Alan,
Do an ice breaker with the students. This gets them talking among themselves and lets you get relaxed with them. After the ice breaker I put my students into groups and have them work on an activity that involves basic problem solving using some components of the field. The activity is fun, high energy and competitive.
By now we are into the class 30-45 minutes and when I pull the class back together I feel I already know them so my nerves are calmed and I am ready to move to the next part of the class.
Gary
Go with the basics - establish your credentials. You don't want to get too personal at this point.
As a first day professor how do you get over your first day jitters?
I usually go with professional experience and personal experience. It establishes your knowledge of the subject matter but also lets them know you are just a human being and everything that goes along with that.
I, also being recently placed back into 'teaching', have learned to limit the 'first encounter' tell all. Give enough to show your practical and technical skills to the students. As the class moves on, you can interject additional information.
I think we should give the information the relates to the functions of the classroom and allow the students to ask any questions relative to the class. Providing information on my professional background allows the students to feel more comfortable about providing information about themselves to the classroom. Instructors should give as much professional background information as they feel comfortable giving.
Hi James,
Good point. We need to be careful how we establish ourselves with our students and let them know they are being taught by a knowledgeable and skilled instructor.
Gary
I feel the more professional background and experience you can relay to your students, the better. Too much is when you are bragging.
I think there is a point where you are not giving enough professional background. Students will definitely respect you more with prior experience in the field (discipline) that you are teaching. Most students want to know that you not only know the subject matter, but that you also have experience in the profession as well. Thanks for the comment.
Doug
