The first impression is a real important one. Just like the first impression of someone when you meet them. A positive impression comes with positive outcomes.
On the first day, I always try to make my students feel welcome and at least be comfortable with themselves in the classroom as well as with their classmate.
If I give a good impression of myself, they can learn to trust me better as well as respect what I teach in class.
It shows the student that they can trust you and that you are a professional.
You set the tone for your class
If you are excited and modivated they join in.
We expect the students to behave in a professional manner and dress and act appropriately so it important for the instructor to do the same. This helps to command respect from the students. Coming to class well prepared sets an example for the students that they should also come prepared for class by bringing the appropriate supplies and being ready to pay attention to class. If an instructor comes to class and is not prepared it shows that an instructor can't be bothered to prepare for the class. This sends out the wrong impression.
Making a positive first impression when starting a new class is very important. In my opinion if done right you will make a lasting impression on your students forever.
The first impression is important because it sets the stage for the rest of the course. I found if you are disorganized and late for the first class, you have lost a lot of credibility with your students even if you are on point for the rest of the semster.
Hi Robert,
Good point about the 8-10 need. It is at this point we really earn our money because we have to work very hard to keep students engaged and focused on the end of the course. They are tired and life's issues can start to interfere with their being successful students. This is the time to pull out the really dynamic activities and get them charged up to finish the course in spite of the challenges.
Gary
In my current teaching situation, I am seen as "the toughest instructor" for the program. Knowing this, my first day is extremely important to set the correct tone for the class. I try to explain why I am the toughest and that it is all hype and rumors. I want the students to understand that I am human, have empathy and some sympathy to their needs, yet have high expectations for their success in the classroom and the field they are pursuing. I love the first day everyone is excited and everyone wants to learn. What we need is a class for keeping everyone excited week 8-10 when they "hit the wall" because they work full time, student full time and parent full time.
I work for a Business/Technology school. It is important to make a good first impression so the students will have a positive role model. If I conduct myself professionally the first day of class hopefully they will see the importance for job interviewing.
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because it sets the tone for the entire class. Students are looking to the instructor to set those standards.
Hi All,
All of you have made good points about making a positive first impression. What are some ways you individually go about making such an impression.
Thanks in advance for your input on this.
Gary
A positive first impression is so important so that your class becomes comfortable with you and trusts you, allowing a better learing environment for the student.
Hi April,
A positive first impression helps to establish the tone of the class. By having a positive environment the instructional delivery will be more effective and efficient for the students.
Gary
Having a positive first impression allows the instructor to have more control of the classroom and have the respect of the students. An instructor should want students to think highly of them and vise versus.
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because it will give the students a feel of how you are and how you carry yourself. If you make a positive first impression the students will feel more relaxed and excited about taking your class.
It will also give you the respect that you deserve as an instructor.
Making a positive first impression gives the students the belief that you are human. It also allows them to feel that you as an instructor are approachable. If they get any hint that you are not approachable, this would not only be a disadvantage to the student, but to the instructor as well. A first impression is usually a lasting impression, and I would hope that everyone would want to be viewed positively. Positivity allows for success in all that you do!
I think putting the student at ease really comes from a positive first impression. Iwant the student to get past any nervousness and accept the information I am going to follow with.
I found this very helpful to. I was able to divert the attention away from me and put the focus on them. It was the very first class that I taught and it helped put me at ease which in turn put my students at ease
It sets the tone for the remainder of the class.
I have been teaching for a few years and the best feedback I have gotten from students is that they want to know expectations, how they can succeed in the course (some want to know how to get an A!) and a specific calendar with assignments and due dates. Another thing they hate is too many changes in the syllabus! And yes, convey love of the topic and ENERGY!
