DeShaun Gunter CHEP

Expect unpredictability. Expect alot of questions concerning policies and rules. You also get a few "what if" questions. There is no substitute for preparation so be overly prepared for that first meeting.

Michele Fletcher

It has been my experience that an instructor should expect anything and everything when meeting a class for the first time. There are so many personalities to learn and process. I think it is important for an instructor to realize that some students will have fear over the course content, some will be anxious and in a hurry to begin the work, some will be curious about what type of instructor they are getting, some will be completely closed off and are there because it is required. I like to let my students know what the course expectations are and then ofcourse my expectations for the class and each of them individually. I always give my background info to them when introducing myself and then I do a "get to meet you" ice breaker with the whole group. I give them their syllabus, a grade-breakdown sheet, and an assignment list right off the bat so they have an idea of the workload and what we will be doing throughout the course. I have found that with most students the fear comes from the unknown and not knowing what to expect. I try to alleviate that fear as much as possible by showing them what they can expect and assuring them they can go the distance. Positive build-up from start to finish through-out the course so they feel empowered and want to learn.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Mahmoud,
Curious students to begin with. The students want to know something about their new instructor, the requirements for the course, how much work there is going to be and how hard it is going to be to pass the course to begin with. So by having a strategy for student introductions, doing an ice breaker and sharing a well prepared syllabus the students will be able to settle into the course and look forward to the upcoming class sessions.
Gary

Dr. Gary Meers