First Day Expectations
Every class is different, but I generally gage the success on the first day of a class by how much participation I am getting as the day goes on. Participation is an indicator of how comfortable the students are in their environment. As long as some sense of order is maintained, I like to have an open format where they can ask any questions even remotely pertinent to the subject, this keeps them engaged and learning right from the start.
I like to take a couple of minutes at the beginning of each class to ask everyone their name and where they are from. This helps me relate to the students and helps the students speak up and be ready to engage in our class discussions....sort of an ice breaker.
Gauging the class the first day is definitely going to help know what direction the class is going to have to take.
Introductions around the classroom are essential in my classe. I start with my own intro.to let the students learn a little about me. I also inject some humor to lighten things up. I like knowing some things about all students rather than just see a bunch of faces in front of me. I stronly encourage conversation not only during introduction but throughout the class. Respectful conversation is a must. Interrupting may work on Fox news but not in my classroom. Keeping order hasn't been a problem I just remind them to stay on topic and stay focused.
First impressions aren't always correct in teaching though. Sometimes students have to settle in before they start feeling comfortable in the classroom enviroment.
Hi Jasen,
The key in starting a class and getting to know students is to develop rapport with them. Learning about their past experiences and their interests will help you form an idea about the composition of your class for the coming phase.
Gary
It can be as simple as asking where they are from and interest.
I have all the students participate durring the first day. this does two things:
It allows the students to participate in class
it also helps the me associate names with faces when i call on them
