It is amazing how a smile can go a long way. I smile and say hello to students even if I do not know them and sometimes I get them in one of my classes and they remember me.First impressions are very important and you have no idea how the other person remembers a smile and yet it is free to give.
Eye contact is a must, along with body langage, and the way I speak to them. Don't make them feel surperior, but more like equals, still giving the message/impression I'm the teacher.
Susan,
Thanks! It seems you are really in tune with your students. Nice work.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Absolutely. I think it's a very distancing wardrobe choice - at least how I approached it initially.
My student body is mostly female and many students are economically disadvantaged. What I learned is their past experiences with women in suits was "less than positive." The formal suits were something that made me seem very unapproachable, even someone to avoid on campus.
I still dress business professional, but more often than not the jacket is hanging on the back of the chair (unless I'm cold).
Susan,
This shows a lot of thought. Do you think a woman in a suit is mor intimating to students than a man in a suit?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I toned down how I dress so I can be more approachable to students.
Originally when I walked into my school I wore very traditional suits, but shortly after I started meeting my students I realized some of them found this off putting. I was too formal, and it was intimidating.
Over time I started replacing my suit jackets with the occasional cardigan sweater and added some less traditional pieces into my wardobe. More students felt comfortable around me, and I was better able to serve them because they were less intimidated by my scary suits.
I offer a true smile and a handshake, followed with an honest hello. Be earnest in your greeting and ask if there are any questions You may need answered. Then take the time to answer any and all questions the person may have. Take your time so they feel comfortable.
The first day of class I am the first one in the class room. As each student comes in to the class I greet the student. I smile and say,'Welcome to Family Nursing. Once I have all the students in class I introduce myself with a smile and enthusiasm. I go around the class and ask each student their names and the reason why they chose nursing as a career. Thank You, Veronica
A smile goes a long way, I can also try to keep in mind that they are forming impressions just like I am.
A great way is when you see someone approaching - walk up to them with a smile and a warm sincere greeting. Don't wait for them to make the first move. Be confident and cheerful.
I think it is extremely important on the first day of class to show how enthusiastic you are to teach this particular course. I explain the structure of the course, the grading system, the time when I am available to answer questions and help with course papers. When the students realize that I am there to help, they feel more welcome and it seems to build a good first impression.
Just by smiling and saying hello, and it's nice to meet them, etc. A friendly face and attitude always makes a great first impression.
Aprilan,
The personal, synchroneous approach always yields benefits.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I teach online, calling the student when the course starts and when they do good work goes a long way.
Carey,
Nice plan. Thanks for sharing it.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Obviously I smile and say hello...however, when I first meet a student I ask them their name. I repeat the name and hold out my hand for a shake and say the following "Hello...Susie Q, it is so nice to meet you, my name is Carey and I am here to assist and support you in your education and I can't wait to see you walk across the stage at graduation" This helps me to remember names and faces as well as lets them know that I am open and approachable.
Danielle,
What are some specific things you do during a lesson to demonstrate "caring?"
Jeffrey Schillinger
I believe a big smile and upbeat attitude will help make a great first impression. You want to show the students you care about them and also that you are energetic and excited to teach them, and care about their success.
Jacqueline,
Based on your statement, students wull make qick judgements. What is it you do to manage that first impression?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I beleive the first impression of a person is the last. People tend to access a person from what they first hear from a persons mouth, and how they look.
