Ralph,
Good reminder for instructors, especially beginning instructors that may feel like you did. These comments will be of help to them as they plan how they will introduce themselves and their experiences to the students in the first class they teach.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first time I taught my course I found it intimidating introducing myself to my students. The second time I'm realizing that my history is just as important to them as thiers is to me to establish trust.
Aside from getting names and basic information about students in the class, I think it's actually a great way to find out what you might actually learn from students in the class. I've taught a class in which one of the students was quite experienced with regards to the subject matter, and it was great to have him share his experiences throughout the course.
Dorothy,
This is so important because by knowing this you can plan your instruction more accurately.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
You are letting them know what your expections are and getting the feel as to why they sign up for this program
Nazanin,
Yes, they do. They create a foundation upon which to build the development of respect and rapport.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Besides being an ice-breaker, introductions create an atmosphere of trust and a sense of belonging. By sharing my background and accomplishments, students quickly realize that their goal is very realistic and within reach and the path they have chosen is the right one.
I believe the most important part of early introduction is feeling each other out. It can give you a sense of how to approach a person when trying to teach them. That is huge in the respect that it allows a two way street to now be open and have a better understanding of how to communicate with each other.
Maria,
A relaxed introduction session along with a fun ice breaker is good way to get a class started. This way everyone feels a part of the class and is ready for the learning to begin.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Sandra,
You have a good strategy for getting your students settled into your class and feeling comfortable with how the class is going to be conducted. Learning student names is important and you have set a good goal for getting this done.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with going into a class the 1st day and introducing myself to the class and having each one introduce themselves to the class and telling us why they are in school and what they plan for a short term goal and a long term goal.
As discussed in the module, I use the introduction time to set the tone for the course atmosphere moving forward. First, I want to build the foundation for credible learning by showing them that I have the experience, knowledge and ability to communicate. That accomplishment will earn me their respect and trust. Trust that they will learn from me and that I have something critical to share.
Second, I want to learn about what they bring to the table. What is their background, experiences and learning platform thus far.
And, finally, I use their introductions, to fill their name into a desk drawing of the seating. Their introduction allows me to note what they like to be "called" and begin to learn their names. My goal is to know their names by the second class.
James,
I agree in terms the more you can learn about the students the more your can customize your instruction to meet the needs of your current students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I feel that in learning about where the students from and where they are wanting to go in life can help me understand them.
Ronda,
Right you are about the need for modeling for students. You are setting the stage for success through the methods you are using.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I like to give students verbal directions on self-introductions and what type of information to include. I then demonstrate those directions in my self-introduction so they have an example to follow. They learn about my teaching style at the same time as they learn about what I share in my introduction. We all yearn for confidence and acceptance so by giving students a model to follow, it removes many doubts.
When I introduce myself to the class I am trying to connect to the students and provide an open and comfortable environment.
Tamikah,
This is a very good way to get students settled into the course and feeling comfortable. This is a fun time for them plus they get to know each other a little better.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
When I introduce the students and myself I put them in groups and have them to introduce each other. I have the student tell me something unique about the person sitting next to you.
It breaks the ice of them getting to know each other and myself as the instructor.
The classroom or clinic (in my case)we learn from each other every day. That is how we correct our "mistakes" and move forward.
