Smile...
It's amazing how much this makes the first day of class more effective and enjoyable for students.
Kellie,
this is so true, I recognized this even at an early age how my teachers' mood/attitude impacted me.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I truly believe that we create our own attitude. When we as instructors walk into a classroom smiling and choose to be in an overall "good" mood, we project that on to our students! They in turn tend to be happier and more open to communicate and participate in class.
I believe smiling can go a long way when communicating with students. They will feed off of the positive energy and it will help them not feel intimidated. It will also help the students feel more comfortable with their instructor when asking questions.
As a technical instructor, I ask the student(s) "are you winning" knowing the answer is NO. Then I explain that his outward expressions told me, he wasn't winning before i asked the question. I explain the when I'm not winning, I am the only one that knows this, because of the mental attitude i maintain. That possitive attitude can carry us thru any issue at hand.
Belinda,
it really is true that the smile can communicate warmth, welcome & acceptance. All of which help to enhance the learning environment.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I try to smile in my classroom all the time. I catch my self smiling at everything usually and it seems to make my students more at ease.
zach,
excellent point made in regard to smiling. We all intuitively know the power of the smile, and research bears this up. One of the best ways to help students feel comfortable & welcome & supported is through smiling.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
smiling in your class room inforces a positive image and confidence to your students,shows them they wont have the anxiety and fears what will take place in the class room which will make them not enjoy the hours they have to be in your class.I always greet my students as they arrive for class each day with a smile it has helped me build rapport with them,it also shows I care about them as well.Its amazing what a beautiful smile can do for people who is always around a negative enviroment.It helps with change to where they can build trust with you.If you can not gain trust you can not be successful with anyone.
zach bernal intellitec college colorado springs,colorado.
