I introduce my past experiences which include both job related and non-job related to my students so they can relate and compare their own experiences. I also find out a lot of personal information from students' introductions which gives me some ideas on how to help them later on.
By doing Instructor and student introductions I am not only letting them know who I am and what my experience is, but I also gain a lot of insight to each student and where they are coming from by hearing their introductions. I also find that it is a good gateway for them getting to know each other. They are able find others who they might have something in common with. It is often that I find a lot of conversation erupts after introductions by students wanting to know more about the information they have shared in the introductions
Hi Gary,
A question for most students from the first day of class is "am I in or am I out?". Human nature is to look at ways they are being excluded from a setting such as class. By using your methods they will feel included from the very beginning so they don't have to feel that they are trying to work their way into the class even though they don't have to.
Gary
everyone gets an idea about each other. i use a form that the students fill in and then I have them read the repsonses to each other. I fill in the same form and read my responses last. we now have a basis for comaprision. a starting point
Hi, Gary,
In introducing myself, I establish credibility and accessibility. I want the students to know that they're with a competent professional who will teach both technical aspects and an understanding of our industry. I want my enthusiasm for the craft and the business to shine through, and of course hope that it is contagious.
With student introductions I get a feel for the diverse ages, backgroungs and hence possible learning styles. I also want this to be a good ice breaker and to give all a chance to link with someone. I hope they go home after their first day of class with a sense of belonging to the group. They will look forward to the next day with excitement, not apprehension. -Gary
There are several things that I hope to accomplish through mutual introductions.
1) Establish rapport by getting to know them and having them know something about me. This should make everyone feel more at ease.
2) I can also use this introduction time to define for them my role and qualitifications for being the instructor and classroom leader.
3) Since enthusiasm is often contagious, using this introduction time to share some of my background can set a positive tone.
2)By getting to know their course of study at our college, I can personalize for them how a Cultural Diversity course can be of particular benefit to them in their careers. This is usually something most of them don't expect; for example, I often get a thrill when I see the lightbulb go on as I help an Animation student realize that what they will learn in this course will be of practical benefit to them since their field is global in nature.
I feel I am making a valuable connection that will last beyond the course module. At our school we often re-unite with students in clubs or in subsequent classes, and it's important that the first impression is meaningful for the student. That way they are more eager to participate in activities that involve you later on.
Hi Kari,
You are being an effective educator through your listening approach. This way you can customize to the needs of your students and earn their respect as well.
Gary
Introductions are a way to break the tension in a new class. What can be learned depends on how the introductions are done: individually or in small groups introducing each other for example.
What is learned can also depend on what is asked for: just the four facts? Maybe experience? Students home state? Their birthday month? What is asked may depend on if the group is a cohort who have been together previously.
The Instructor can set the tone by sharing information that states her level of expertise, knowledge of area, relevance of course in student future and enthusiasm for the class.
Introductions generally increase the comfort level of students and creates familiarity for each other that they may need for future group projects.
I tell them about my background so that they know why I'm teaching the course. I also make myself approachable by giving some personal information. When I listen to their introductions, I learn what experience and perspective they bring to the course. This information may help tailor aspects of teaching the course.
