A positive first impression is for students to see that you care as an instructor and your knowledgeable about what you're teaching.
A good first impression sets the tone for the rest of the course. Whenever I start a new group of students, I start with the basics of greeting everyone that walks in and letting them know I am excited that they chose to pursue their career path. As I am beginning the class I keep things light and humorous, based on my audience. After the mood is set that learning can be fun and doesn't have to feel like work, the chores of explaining policy and course requirements are easy and entertaining, not only for myself but the students as well.
Making a good first impression will help build your relationship and respect with the students.
Samirah,
Good point and one that needs to be considered as we step into the classroom and give our students the opportunity to form their opinions of us. We need to always consider what we what that opinion to be.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Michael,
Yes, we are. We need to bring excitement and enthusiasm to the classroom. Both are catching!
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
The saying "you never get a second chance to make a first impression" is extremely applicable when students are concerned. If you appear disorganized, disheaveled, nervous, etc. it will dissuade students on your abilities and also give the impressions you can be manipulated on grading practices and assignments.
A positive first impression is very important due to the whole buy in from the students stand point. It helps not only easing the mindset of the student, it allows them to trust and believe in what you are teaching and that they made the right decision of picking this school of choice.
It has been mentioned that it only takes just maybe three seconds or so, for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. The other person at that time will form an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanor, your mannerisms, and how you are dressed.
A positive first impression is important on many levels, first it shows that you are a compatent instructor and have valuable experience to share. it also adds a sense of relief for the student that he or she is in "good hands" and that the information being tought will be of direct benefit to their careers. and last but not least, they will gain a sense of accomplishment and enjoy coming to class and be more prepared to learn.
A positive first impression will bebefit srudents and get them excited about comintg to school. If you are negative, students will second guess their decision to come to school. We are MOTIVATORS!!!!
Sherry,
You are going to have a great first class meeting, I can tell from your attitude and effort. I am excited for you and I know you are anxious to get into the classroom and get the learning underway.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Students will look at the instructor as a role model. They will do whatever the instuctor tell them to do or whatever they see the instructor do. The instructor must lead by example. The instructor must start class on time. The instructor should be there first thing in the morning to greet student with a smile to let the student know the the environment is a welcoming one. The instructor should be properly dress so that students can see that level of professionalism that the instructor is displaying. Watch what you say and how you say things, as this can be a reflection of professionalism. Follow the steps for beginning the class, this shows students that you are prepared and organized. This lesson has given me some excellent pointers that I will be following when my first class starts shortly!
Thanks,
Sherry Davidson
Nursing Instructor
Eric,
Common sense tells you that a positive first impression is a must but often instructors get so busy preparing they forget about the first day of class and how it impacts students. You make good points about how instructors need to approach this first day.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Karen,
Good point and one that is important to make the first class meeting. This sets the students up for success as they see how the course will unfold for them in the coming weeks.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Paula,
It sure does. A good first impression creates a foundation upon which to build for the rest of the course.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Again this is oen that would seem to be a no brainers. As in life that class room is a place where you will be judged. For this reason though, the students in your classroom have their lives and future in your hands. They need to know that you have their best interest in mind and that you are teaching them the truth. It is very important that they trust you and feel that you are going to lead them in the right direction.
The first impression is so important, because it is your first and biggest opportunity to show the student who you are and what you are about. Most people really hold onto the "first-time" memory and you will definitely benefit if they regard this memory in a positive, rather than negative light. When you try to create this positive impression, it shows the students that you are thoughtful and care about your position as their instructor. It helps develop the relationship you will have with your class and lets the students know your professionalism and level of experience. It can set the stage for them to understand that you can be regarded as an "expert" in the field of which you are teaching.
Antonio,
Good points about the value of a positive first impression. This is much like our opinions of a restaurant the first time we visit it. For students their first interaction with a Chef gives them information from which they will form an opinion on the class and even their future in culinary arts.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I find that when I'm taking a class it is always more comfortable when the teacher gives me an overview of the class. I try to always give that to my students on their first day.
I find if I am enthusiastic about the class my students for the most part become more enthusiastic as well. Of course, there are always those that don't get excited about much.
Helps set the tone of the class and easier to earn respect of the students.
