Making a first impression is so important in life-and with your class. It makes the students get a feel for you, makes them see that you are knowledgable and personable.
It shows that the instructor is prepared and has motivation to teach. When promoting positive impressions students will probably be more at ease.
Sophia,
True and it is so much easier to build on a positive impression than dig out of a negative hole.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Every 1st impression is important but it's especially true in the classroom as it sets the tone for the remainder of the course.
John,
Right you are. Digging out of a negative hole is no fun as we all know. It is much easier to start positive and move forward from there.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Making a positive first impression is very important because it sets the tone for the entire class. If you are not positive it is very difficult to change that impression and you could end up doing it for the entire length of the class.
Hector,
So true and so important for the rest of the course.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
You only get one shot for that first impression.
Making a positive first impression is very important to establish a positive start with the students. So the student will know they have an instruction that is capable of teaching the class.
If the group likes you from the first sight, it gets charged with positive emotions. The students get impression that they have done the right choice.
Consuala,
Yes, it will. This sets the stage for a comfortable and supportive learning environment.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Making a good first impression will set the tone of the course and establish a position of authority.
Don,
Right you are. How do you set the stage in your classes for a positive first impression?
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
if you dont you loose the respect of the group and they will destroy the plans and hopes for your time together
Melissa,
This method of starting a class is powerful and sends a very clear message to the students. They see you as a professionally dressed caring instructor that is looking forward to teaching the course. It is a matter of building from there and this a great foundation upon which to build.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
A positive first impression is important to help make the student feel more comfortable. They always say make a good first impression because that is what people will remember about you. If you show up to class late and are not prepared, this may make the students ask themselves, "is this person even a good teacher?"
I have received feedback from students that feel as though my enthusiasm about the course material and the subject matter was very important when introducing myself and the course. It is difficult to dig yourself out of the hole if your first impression is lacking. Students are quick to pick up on attitudes, behaviors, and overall demeanor.
The reason it is so important to make a positive first impression is to put the students at ease. They can know that if they are dealing with someone positive they will be able to get excited about what they are doing and feel comfortable that they are dealing with someone who is knowledgeable in their field.
It is easier to start tough/strict and loosen up than to tighten the reigns on a class. Also you can't make a second first impression. In the first few seconds a student sees you they are making a decision on whether or not they like the class, if they think you care about them etc. I always were a suit on the first day of class. I stand outside the side and personally greet each student with a handshake, tell them my name and repeat their name back. By showing respect from the beginning I let the students know that I expect that they respect the class and eachother in return.
Audrey,
Yes, they will and this is very important because they need to know the expectations of their field and you the instructor helps show them.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
