First time impression
How can I improve after a bad first time impression?
A first impression, whether good or bad, can be changed, but there has to be a conscious effort and a constant awareness. I do not concern myself with personality differences, those are going to happen but it is very important to identify personality types and make every effort to manage interactions based on those perceptions.
Hi Frank,
Well said about first day impressions. Yes, that first day can go off track but as you say look at what happened, learn from it and be ready when you start the next class. In the meantime work to get the current class back on track and focusing on the learning that needs to occur.
Gary
I think it is really important to avoid the bad first impression the second time around. The first day of class is influential to the entire term. If you have a bad first day, yes you need to get on the defensive and come overly prepared to the next class to break down the students impressions. But you should also take it as a learning experience and adjust your first day lesson plans so the “bad first impression” is avoided in the following terms.
Hi Terri,
Thanks for sharing this good advice for recapturing the class after a rough start. Using examples and personal experiences related to the career field will help to regain control of the situation and illustrate to the students that they have a qualified instructor that wants to help them succeed. Then it is forward with the course.
Gary
Certainly, you can improve after a bad first impression by coming back prepared with an outline and some new ideas from this forum. Try to incorporate some ways to get the students excited about the course. I have found that incorporating some real life examples of work that students will be doing early in the class gets students more actively involved and excited about the learning process. Also, sharing success stories from past courses is always helpful.
Hi Sara,
Good examples of how to get "settled" and ready for a class. Nothing can beat preparation to build confidence which leads to enjoyable teaching.
Gary
Make sure that you are extremely prepared for the following weeks class. If students see that you are responsible, they will follow you. Was it a bad impression because you were "too friendly" or because you were nervous, etc. I think that coming in prepared helps calm the nerves and as mentioned earlier helps the students see that you are a good role model.
