Making a positive first imperssion is important because it sets the tone for the class. I start by introducing myself and giving a little bit of background information. I also allow my students to ask me questions about my background before class ends. This creates an open dialogue with the students and also creates an open, positive atmosphere.
Beginning your new class on time, making eye contact and greeting each student with a smile creates an excellent first impression from which to build great rapport with students.
As many have said, you can only have one first impression. In my experience that first impression stays though out the course and many times to the next. By making it positive, it helps make the class positive and I find that learning takes place more often than not.
Shivani,
How do you set the stage for your new classes so you make a positive first impression on your students?
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Sets the stage for the students by time management and preparedness
It sets the stage for success: the students can expect you to be welcoming, porfessional and motivated to learn from. It helps, not all the time, prevent poor performance and have all the students to be engaged
Mark,
Good point and one we need to remember. Why not start out positive and build from there rather than trying to dig out of a negative hole for the first few class sessions?
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
