First Class
In my first class I always give a brief background on myself, both personal and professional. I want student to know that I am an expert at what I do and that they are in good hands and I also want them to know I am a person with outside interests. I go over the course expectations, I try to joke a little and get them to relax. I always let them know they do not have to call me professor or Mr. Melle that will do just fine. I find this gives them my expectations but also relaxes them some as well.
As an online instructor, voice and tonality are everything. Sure the webcam is there but I think it can't be used to convey the real motivation behind one's teaching style.
It is much easier to convey something in person, so it will be a great challenge to teach online. What a terrific platform for both students and teachers.
Hi Sharron,
Well said. By all being teachable, both instructors and students can continue their growth both professionally and personally. By having everyone contribute to the total learning experience the knowledge base is going to be expanded far beyond just the content area.
Gary
I provide a brief, personal background description. I also let my students know that the course is an opportunity for us to learn from each other. I do not pretend to know everything. We all have different experiences & perspectives. And, we should all be teachable.
Hi Susan,
Good point about straight and steady. As the students enter the class they are nervous and wondering what you will be like as an instructor. By laying everything out clearly you help them to relax and see how they can be successful which is so important at the beginning of a course.
Gary
I think they really like the idea of 'no surprises' from the instructors. Straight and steady on course to begin. As they get a bit more used to my teaching style and grading system, I add a few more on-the-job stories and/or examples.
I agree.
In my first class, I introduce myself. Its important that I give my students a good background on my professional development.
From there I ask them about themselves, what they are studying, and their level of understanding is for the course. Everyone comes in with different needs.
Then I get into the course expectations and how to be successful.
I think its a great way of opening up the course.
Hi Jeffrey,
Good job with your students in sharing the end goal of the course the first day. This way they know what is going to happen throughout the course to get them to where they want to be. It is simple and straight forward and easy for them to understand. This will help them to get settled into the course and feeling comfortable about their success opportunities.
Gary
I do basically the same thing. I find it important for the students to know why I am teaching the class and why I am qualified. This helps to set the stage for the rest of the class. I can talk about my experience at the beginning and hopefully carry that through to the rest of the classes. But the first impression is critical in my mind to keep those students coming back.
I also tell them about the class and where we are going to end up when the class is done, that way they see the end goal but on day one.
I believe first impressions are important to the students and teacher. Your repore , your dress, your interest in your subject and how much you enjoy teaching is what they will remember.
