i agree, learning the students names is important. but i seem to remember the student names better when i have to discipline them...
Great idea and one I will have to try.
I also use this technique Andrew. It helps break the ice a little. It also helps me remember the students. I have to admit. I have close to 200 students each semester so it is really hard to learn all their names. Somehow I have success. Students really appreciate when you address them by their name. Sometimes I remember their first name. Sometimes I remember their last name. It is very strange.
Remembering names is the first step in classroom management and an effective way of getting students involved right from the start.
Hi Randall,
I'm not sure of your question. If you could expand some on it I will be glad to answer it.
Thanks.
Gary
I often ask for hints for the first letter, is this being disrespectful?
R
Hi Chris,
What a great way to get the introductions completed and students settled into the class. You are making it personal to them by letting them relate their personal experiences to the class setting.
Gary
I agree.Very important learning by names, make students fill more better and to achieve their career goals.
I start every first class every quarter with a "get to know each other" discussion. I take extensive notes.
My students seem surprised that I do not have to ask "is Ralph here?" in the 2nd class.
Discussions soliciting personal views help. In Music classes, asking "when did you first become turned on to music" or "what was the first concert you went to?" gets every single student talking and gives a good snap shot of their personalities.
I have used the technique of having other students introduce each other. It was quite effective!
I agree that within the forst week, names need to be remembered. It shows professionalism on the instructors part as well as respect. As for the Mr/Mrs. it does keep the playing field at a reserved level.
inour case, we go by first name of our students. as long as the students know the boundries it works out well.
Hi Andrew,
There are a number of strategies that you can use. One is to have each student take a 5x7 card and fold it in half lengthwise. Have the student use a marker and put the name they prefer to be called by on the card. They put the card on their desk. This is a visual cue for you. Also, do ice breakers where each student introduces them selves and gives a career goal or significant fact about themselves. While this is going on you can make notes about these facts so you can associate the names of the students to the facts they share. Such has John just returned from backpacking across Wyoming. These are memory triggers for you.
Another way is to take a picture of each student and then put them into a file where you put their picture, name and significant fact together. Then you can review the file, either have it on your desktop or I print the file out and have it in front of me as we start each class. This way I am seeing the picture, the person and the name all together. A couple of class meetings and you will be surprised at how many names you will remember. Talk with each student each day and develop rapport with that student. This will create a tie between their name and their face.
There are many more strategies that I could suggest, such as each student introducing the person next to them to the class. Try some of these and see how they work for you. If you want more suggestions just let me know and I will be glad to share them with you.
Gary
What is the best way to learn their names?
Hi Jody-jean,
This is the method I use for my larger classes and it really works. I also use this method to take roll. At the beginning of class I will have all the name tents placed on my desk. The students pick up their name tents and go to their seats. When I call the class to order I pick up the remaining tents. After class I can quickly run through the tents and record who was absent. Those students that are tardy have to see me to get their tents which they don't want to do because they know how I feel about tardy students. The point is with this method I don't have to take any class time to take roll, it is quick and efficient and done without any distractions.
Gary
This is hard for me as well. I found that it really helped to ask the students to put tented pieces of paper on thier desks with their first names. This seemed to work well
Oui Chef .
It makes them feel that you care also and that you are on top of the game.
Because most of the time it's the first time you have them in class as well.
Buddies is not my policy anyway !!!
Hi Fred,
Use what ever means necessary to remember students' names. I know with the turn over I have with new classes each phase it seems I am constantly learning the names of new students. I have developed like you a variety of means that I use to get those names committed to memory quickly. It really helps to get the students settled into the class and feeling a part of the learning process.
Gary
It has been the bane of my existence to remember names so now what I do is I associate my student's name to an actor,famous person, sport figure etc
I would say that using students' first names is important to set the class at ease. It makes for a more "casual" learning experience. We get the structure through the syllabus, lessons, plans, grading and so forth. Are there any instructors whose class calls them by their first name?
Hi Richard,
Remembering names can be difficult for some of us and I find it easier when the class introduces themselfs individually, don't you? It should be relaxed and fun but not uncomfortable for those who are shy or have trouble speaking in a group. This activity also gives students courage and practice in speaking with pride. The instructor gains too by learning about the students styles and their expectations of the course. This also allows for any questions or concerns regarding these expectations so everyone is on the same note.
