Meeting Your Class for the First Time
Take time to go over the syllabus, introduce the course, and establish common goals and expectations. Let them know the kinds of work they'll be doing - provide examples and demonstrations of the output you expect from them. Spend time in the first session to explain fully how the course will run. Make sure you allow time for questions and to clarify expectations.
Agreed that the first day is crucial. I have always had to remind myself of the importance of going through the syllabus carefully and completely. Often, in my zeal to "get going", I have been tempted to just skate through and start the course. Not a good plan. Thanks for the reminder.
I think that is a great idea for a segway for students expectations of the course!!
This is great. I think a lot of instructors do this, but do they remember to allow time at the end for questions and comments? I sometimes forget this part. This is something I will be sure to remember when my next class starts.
I agree that the above mentioned is key to the success of the first day. I do, however, add in an icebreaker to help ease some of the tention.
After introducing course content, I like to have a short discussion and start off by asking the class
"Who Cares?"
Why do we want to learn this?
The off beat question helps get 'buy in' since the students are now telling me the value, and what's really in it for them as far as practical application.
Kelly,
This approach really sets the stage for the entire course. Once students know how you are going to operate the course they can then set their minds to how they will fit within the course and be successful.
Gary
