Evelyn,
Good points about first impressions. They are much easier to build on rather than trying to dig out of a negative hole throughout the course.
Gary
As everyone says "First impression lasts"...It is very important for the very first day of the class to make a good impression because in here, it will have a big impact as to whether or not the student will continue the course or might drop the class! If the instructor made a good impression, it will add up for motivating students to study more or to make the class interesting for them!
For me a positive first impression is what will determine a healthy relationship to come with my students, if they see me in a good light the first day they will be more willing to work through tough times, if they see me in a bad light then it will mean they will block me out, making it very dificult to help them in the future.
Megan,
This is important because there are always situations that require we make judgment calls. By having a clear policy you can work from you then know where and how you can be flexible.
Gary
I start with a strict policy, but if a student comes to me with a legitimate problem or issue, I do my best to be flexible.
If they see you motivated, they strive to do the best they can in your class.
I feel it is important to have a positive first impression when starting a new class because this lays the foundation for the rest of the semester. The student should feel as though the instructor will be fair, content will be delivered in away that will be easily understood, and with ethusiasm. The instructor should know the subject and content area well. So that the student will want to return to the next class period and will want to learn.
prepare for every class you teach
By being prepared and ready to teach a new group of adult learners, I'm demonstrating to them that I care as much about their success in the course, and at school in general, as they do. I want them to know that I'm not there just to collect a paycheck, but to help them to the next rung in their personal life-ladder.
I find it interesting how much the errors of grammar and word usage in the text I just read annoyed me, given that the text dealt with jpreparation. (The person who wrote it should learn the difference between "insure" and "ensure." They are similar, but different.) I'm sure small things errors I make would have a similar effect on my students.
Making a positive first impression is so critical! This very last mod I taught, at the very end one of my studetns told me, "after you first walked in, I thought you were going to be so mean! But your enthusiasm and knowledge made me want to learn everything you were teachign!"
Setting the tone for the course is the first building block in a student's success in that course. Students enter the class with many questions and worries. Explaining expectations, policies, guidelines, etc. helps put them at ease.
The first class also gives you an opportunity to express why you enjoying teaching and explain your style and approach to teaching. Also, you have an opportunity to learn something about each class member.
This can be a challenge for veteran teachers. I have been teaching for 25 years and it is very easy to get into patterns. I have found that by preparing something different for the first day helps keep me motiviated.
The first impression sets the tone for the entire course. A positive first impression will yield a sense of comfort in the learners and confidence toward the instructor. A good first impression will also help lend validity to the course content.
Lisa,
A smile and a greeting "sells" big time. We all appreciate being welcomed this way and I know your students appreciate this effort from you.
Gary
I start class on time, with a smile. If I am prepping my board as students come in, I greet them. I stop what I am doing and make sure they are greeted with a smile!
James,
You make a very good point about first impressions. We need to always keep this point in mind as we start a new class.
Gary
As educators, we set the tone for the class. Providing course information in a positive manner can make the difference for the entire class. Students are very attentive to how materials are presented to them. Being specific and honest in a positive way has worked best for my classes.
I feel it is important to make a positive first impression,so that your students will feel comfortable in your class. So that your students will also be excited about what they will be learning.
In a room full of different personalities, there is most likey going to be one that does not mesh well with yours. Being the leader, and staying respected by knowing the material and being approchable can be enough to aviod any judgements or conflicts.
Postive, upbeat and structured. Students need to know the guidelines and consequenses up front. Much like children, they will try to get away with something, or find a loop hole. Being well structured as a first impression may diffuse their desire.
is important because:
1. Creates a positive learning experienc
2. Creates a trust between teacher and students
3. Helps in subject understatnding
