First Day Checklist
An an instructor and academic administrator, we have created First Day Check Off list to all of our students. We do this everytime a new module (every 5/8 weeks) starts. It is a simple, brief, concise checklist for both instructors and students. We highlight academic policies, procedures, expectations, academic requiremtns, student behavior, professionalism, attendance policies, etc.
It made our life less stressful since all the intructors are in the same page as to what to be discussed with the students.
Best practices to share.
Hello Dr.J:
In First day check list, i prepare to give an idea about course cuurriculum,attendence policy,grading,uniforms,code of conduct,expectations that will help us to move forward without any hesitation.It is our responsibility to tell the students from day one-what are consequences might happen in future if any one do not follow the procedures.
I like to start my 1st day with a group ice breaker: either sitting or standing in a circle. Any ice breaker is effective, but depending on time, names & a fun fact or the "name game" (he's Jokester John, she's Matching Mary, etc.) help bond the group and reveal each student's personality quickly.
I use my lesson plan as my checklist in every class and put a check mark next to items as I cover them, circling items I cover out of order and making notes as questions come up or I get ideas during class for next quarter.
In the first class, I start with the icebreaker, then introductions. Then I have each student write a letter to themselves that I will retain for the quarter and return to them in the last week of class. In it, they should state their expectations for this class and what they hope to achieve by its completion. Having the students set their own goals in addition to those stated in the syllabus has been very effective. It sets the tone for the entire course.
This is a very helpful idea! I am very new to this and need all the help I can get. I will try usuing this.
i lay the ground rules on the first day with grades and so on
I like to lay out the grading,test, and lab scoring on the first day.
Class behavior and rules are also stressed.
The students understand what is going to happen,
and they can better prepare themselves.
That first day is so important! I still get a little nervous when meeting my new students, and I tend to forget something. When I have a checklist and things go smoothly it gives the students confidence in me. I always keep a bottle of water near the checklist so I can give it a quick review while taking a drink.
i have a form that i follow to keep me a track it is also like makeing a folder that i follow with time frames and actives
I always find my check list is ready to go and reviewed the first
day before entering the class room. But, as I lecture and feel I'm
on a role in making that first day impressing, I sometimes find
myself delivering topics out of sequence.
