first impression
How do you know how aggressive to be? Because I feel like if you are to nice then they try to run you over!
Being firm but not strict sets the tone for the type of instructor you will be. Abide by the policies for both instructor and student and things should go well.
Gary,
Great to hear. This is the place that all instructors need to find themselves. If they don't then there is going to be continued disconnects with the students.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
When I first started teaching, I found that students would challenge me. I needed to be firm, but not create an environment where students would not want to learn because they thought I was too tough. I found a good balance, once I came to know the students. Now, I bring that balance to every course, and adjust it as necessary.
First of all, the students want to know if you are qualified to get them to where they need to be at the end of the course. Looking students directly in their eyes (as a group), smiling, and sharing your vast experience and knowledge, insight, on-the-job experiences will grab their attention, and put some of their anxieties at rest. You don't have to be aggressive at all. Just be assertive. You are selling them on your goods. Have your resume ready to go over somewhat if you are nervous, so that you do not forget some of your expertise and qualifications. Use it like an outline. Interject some on-the-job experiences -- funny ones. They like to see control from the gate, but not overbearing tyranny.
Be organized and prepared for the subject you are teaching.
In my experience, being firm but compassionate shows that you care about your students. I haver always started with a higher expectation of appropriate classroom behavior, then as I see students can handle it, I loosen up a bit. It's easier loosen up thsn it is to try to be firm after being too loose.
Chanel,
Be organized and confident as you start a class. Let them know you are in charge through your conduct and modeling of acceptable behavior as an educator. All of this will be absorbed by the students and you won't have to spend a lot of time on class management. If you let something get out of control like certain students always coming in late without any consequences then you are going to start to have problems.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
