Getting to class early
Very important for students to see this.
Hi Debra:
When students arrive to class and see their instructor already there, materials ready, objectives written on board, and projecting an attitude of "any questions" or "can I help you with anything?", that really goes a long ways to showing the teacher cares and the students education is important.
Mishaps are going to happen (traffic jam), and that's just part of life. Too many times, students will see that rushing in at the last moment is a pattern, not an exception.
Regards, Barry
I go to class after a day job and one evening I was in a traffic jam and arrived late for class which made the whole class feel disrupted and unorganized.
I totally agree. Every first day of class, I too, give the students "housekeeping" rules. Absenteeism and Tardiness is unacceptable, but when it happens, the students are to call into my office and advise. Just as if they were absent or tardy from a job. Our job is to prepare the students for the "Real World" of employment, therefore, should begin in the classroom.
Being organized is essential when instructing, as is showing you care. I have always remained humble about "how smart" I am, instead, I focus on how much I want my students to be successful. Being to class early helps with this aspect of teaching. I can take my time preparing, focus on today's lesson, relax. I like to meet my students at the door and welcome them to class. I could not do that if I just showed up "on time".
I agree! We can not expect the students to be on time if we are not. I always try and get to class at least 10min early; by then most of the class is already there and this gives me a chance to answer any questions about the previous class without taking up class time.
I agree being early for class helps with getting organized, showing the student that you care, and that you are interested in their teaching.
How true, if I as instructor come running in the classroom at 5:44, and class begins at 5:45, what kind of example am I setting for the students.
There are exception to every rule, and unforseen incident could put you behind, but this should not be a habitual occurence.
The guideline that I have set for my students is that class begins at 5:45 pm, and I will begin class promptly. I have a classroom etiquette list that I hand out to my students at the begining of every term. This list I reinforce the importance of being to class promptly. As I review the list with the class, I remind them class begins promptly, just as if you are arriving at your job. If possible come to class five minutes earlier so you can be prepared and relax.
I like getting to class early, this also helps me relax before begining the session. This opportunity gives me time to get to know the students a little better as they arrive.
Some of my student are there up to 1/2 hour before class and it very interesting the conversation that can be had for those few moments. I find it educational, I find out a little information about the students, and find out if they are having problems with their assignments, or if there is any additional information they think they could benefit from.
Its like the students gets to know the instructor, while the instructor is learning more about his/her students. It kind of a win - win situation.
this also gives you a chance to double check evrything for the day and relax a little bit, If you are late it seems to show to the students that you are not ready.
I agree because we have to be willing to do what we ask of our student's by setting an example. If we're late and unprepared as an instructor then we shouldn't expect any different from our student's.
I have very clear guidelines for students that they arrive to class on time and ready. I am very conscientious about getting to class early and having everything prepared for class. This is reinforcement to the students that I do not expect something from them that I am not willing to do. I begin every class by telling students the progression of how the class will go, this way they have a clear understanding of the way the class will run that session.
