I believe that for an online class making a positive first impression is important. Online instructors don't have the same physical access to the students that a classroom instructor has, so we have to put measures in place to make sure that we are effectively modeling, managing, and motivating our students within the virtual campus.
The initial impression that you project to your students is vital in creating a positive learning environment. Your manner of dress, your language, your congeniality, your approachability, your professionalism, and most important your grasp of the content, is all on display that first day of class. If you don't make a good impression at first, you will have to deal with those consequences throughout the course and thereafter.
Luis
A positive first impression is important when starting the class because it sets up the expectation that the student will have for the class, you as the instructor and even the school in some cases. I feel this is one of my strengths as an instructor. I am very enthusiastic about what I teach and very passionate about the detail and presicion that goes into what we do in class. And this is seen by all the students, which gets them enthusiastic about learning about the subject. but I always look for tips to help build a positive first impression.
Setting that first example is crucial to gaining their respect.
First impressions are so important when it comes to the first class. There is tension for the instructor as well as the students. The instructor sets the tone for the class. I feel the instructor must put the students at ease, make them feel relaxed, show them they are human. Also the instructor must provide information that they are competent to teach the course and well qualified.
Hi Dan,
Good way to get everyone settled in and feeling comfortable with the class. I like to use ice breakers as well because they help the students to get to know each other a little better while and share a laugh or two.
Gary
I think that telling where you come from and letting your students know your life experiences is a good thing. It humanizes you, and it makes you more approachable. A good joke or a story would be great ice breakers. I do that for the start of nearly every class. Not to say that you need to be a comedian, but it always helps to bring humor to the classroom.
A positive first impression sets the tone for the whole class. I like to start with an ice breaker or two which gets the class a little bit more talk-a-tive while also providing me some great information about the students. I also like to share a little of my own background and why I am qualified to be teaching that particular class.
Because you never have a second chance to make a first impression.
Hi, all,
When students come to the class on first day, they are already nervous and unsure about course contents and that how difficult the course is; also they don’t know how easy it is to communicate with the instructor and how cooperative s/he is; and so on. To give students a comfort feeling, it is utmost important for instructor to present in constructive and sound manner to leave a positive impression on the students when starting a new class!!
Thank you!!
Farooq
It can take only a few minutes to make a first impression, but a negative impression may never be changed.
There is plenty of truth in the old adage: one does not get a second chance to make a first impression. The first impression made is often a lasting impression, one that is difficult to change.
it sets standards and expectations. a positive first impression lets students know you are serious about being there to instruct as well as helping them feel at ease.
it helps in overcoming any preconceived doubts a student may have.
It allows the students in your class to anticipate the start of a new semester with enthusiasm and expectations of high success.
The class likes to see that you enjoy what you do. That the days ahead of learning are going to be fun. So, that they can look forward to the course materials. And that you care about there outcomes......cheers
A positive impression will set the standards for the rest of the class. If you show excitement about what you do and create a user-friendly environment, your students will be eager to attend and feel excitement about the learning process. A sense of humor will be an essential component for creating that positive first impression.
The students looks at the instructor as a mentor, model and motivator. A first impression will give them a feeling of confidence and motivated to learn a new subject. On the other hand, a bad first impression may give them an insecurity or disinterest about the class.
Some students are very nervious on the very first day, and as an instructor one of the most inportant thing for the very first day is to make sure that the students are on board, this way their learning experience will start on a positive note.
This sets the tone for the class from this day forward. When students leave the classroom eager for the next class, than I know I've done a good job.
Hi Amber,
Well said. We must act as we want our students to act when they are professionals in our field. To do anything less is to be unfair to our students.
Gary
