First day struggles...
I have always struggled with the first day of class, and often chose to go the "tough teacher" route of seeming very strict and no-nonsense. I decided to take this approach after dealing with a very difficult class of high school seniors, figuring I could always lighten up later if I could see that the students were going to be well-behaved. I love some of the ideas everyone has posted, especially the topics about ice breakers that really could be fun. Thanks!
Abigail, I have had to take the same approach, because I've also learned that if I allow too much flexibility, students will undoubtedly take advantage. I think starting with strong expectations and lightening the mood occasionally is fine.
Hi Susan,
I also greet students as they enter the classroom on day 1. Our school uniform policy requires the students to wear ID’s on a lanyard and I am able to use their first names as I greet them. I also shake their hand and welcome them to†our†classroom. This provides a sense of student ownership of the classroom and course.
Melissa
Hi Angie,
Thank you for sharing this good information on how to start off a new class in a career college setting. Your methods and strategies are right on target and I am sure your students really enjoy having you as an instructor. Keep up the great work and attitude.
Gary
I too have had experience teaching high-schoolers, and many teachers advised me when I started "don't smile until Christmas". But, that's just not my personality. Instead, I am very stringent about having structure in class. The first day of class (teaching high school) I always had a seating chart laid out for them, so they could go straight to their assigned seats. Then, I would go over all of the policies and procedures and make sure all of the discipline steps, etc. were understood. After that, it was making a point to follow through on ALL policies and procedures consistently. This increased my success as a classroom manager greatly.
When I made the transition into teaching at a career college, I no longer made a seating chart in advance, but I made sure all policies and procedures were clear and I committed myself to following them. It allows me to be myself (an upbeat, positive, smiling person) and still maintain order in the classroom!
And I agree - icebreakers are a lot of fun!
Hi Susan,
Right you are. That friendly greeting will do much to start the development of respect and rapport with your students. Keep up the good work.
Gary
As a new teacher, I love the really simple idea of being at the door and greeting each student at arrival. Everyone enjoys being made to feel welcome and special. There will be plent of time to lay out rules & regs, but that first impression should be friendly and cordial. Present yourself as someone there to help the student on this journey!
Hi Abigail,
Having had difficult classes, I can understand why you might want to choose the "tough teacher" approach. Do you feel that this is the best strategy for all classes? Have you had consistent positive results from this approach?
