The first impression will last in teh sudents mind beyond any mistakes or misfortunes thereafter. The impression should also portray the expectation of the classroom
Establishing credibility in the first impression is crucial to earning the respect of the student. It is also important to express a general excitement and passion for the field/course in this first class meeting in order to motivate and engage the student.
Hi Vonda,
Right! It is about the students, because we have to be student centered in our instruction. Your comments reflect that idea and I commend you for it.
Gary
Positive first impressions give the students an understanding that the class is about them not about the instructor. It is used to put the students at ease and to give them a chance to get to know each other as well as their instructor.
It sets the standard for the remainder of the term
Students feel a certain amount of trepidation starting a new class - whether it be about the course content or the instructor. On the first day, I try to clearly state:
1. the goals of the course
2. the methods by which we will acheive them,
3. that I am commited to working with each student to help them attain their course goals.
As a new instructor, creating lesson plans and delivery methods will be critical to my success.
When you first started as an instructor, what seemed to work the best to assist you with delivering the course content? What methods were the most effective?
It sets the stantdard for all students in class, and how the course will flow. Reassuring them that they came here with questions and that we are their answer.
Hi Terrie,
This method also helps to set the students at ease because they get to use their personal experiences in the class. So everyone can contribute from the very beginning.
Gary
One of the things I teach is customer service. My classes are very small. During the first part of my first lecture I begin the initial lecture by asking each student to share some information about the following: if they've had customer service experience, any positive/negative experiences as a customer they've had - how they felt in the situation, how they want to be treated as a customer. This has always started the class on a positive note and by the time the students finish sharing, they are all comfortable with the new class.
A positive first impression sets the tone for the upcoming session, students feel more confident if the instructor and the class look professional.
Hi Terrie,
What have you found to be successful ways to connect with the students on a positive note?
Gary
By connecting with the students on a positive note, it makes them more receptive to the learning environment.
Hi Tenisha,
Great philosophy on learning. I like your approach to the classroom. Your students really benefit from your efforts and dedication to their success. Keep up the good work.
Gary
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because you want to establish that you are 3 things: a role model, manager and motivator. First,as a role model you want them to know that you talk the talk and walk the walk. You look the part, you speak the part, you are what they want to become. Secondly, as a manager you want them to know that you are there to instruct them. They will be learning various skills from you. Skills that will help them eventually become just like you. And lastly as a motivator you want to let them know that you will be as I tell my students one of their number one fans. You will always be there to support them.
You gain the respect of your students by being professional, real, and accessible to them. Also letting them know about your professional and educational experiences will help you gain credibility.
Hi Alona,
A first impression is powerful when it comes to getting the students settled into the course as you mentioned. What are some strategies you have found to be effective in making a good first impression and setting the students at ease?
Gary
A positive first impression can make the students feel at ease and welcome, which in turn helps to relieve any fears they may have to overcome. Learning is better received in a comfortable environment.
Hi Robert,
You make a good point about how instructors can be supportive of students and offer them assistance in making progress with their career goals. This is why establishing rapport with students is so important.
Gary
