Making a Positive First Impression
Why is a positive first impression important when starting a new class?
The first impression students have of their instructor is a lasting one. We as educators need to appear professional, establish expectations and boundaries, and yet still be approachable and flexible.
Because it is the first time that the students are being introduced to the teacher and the teacher wants to make that first impression a positive one so that the students will have respect and know that they are being taught by the best!
Perception equals reality for most. At the first meeting the students will size up the instructor as far as credibility - from how the instructor presents themself, in speech, writing, appearance. It's all in the packaging - I find that engaging the students on the first day is critical for establishing understanding of class content. I think it is my responsibility as the instructor to establish "creative tension" in the class thus enabling a wonderful learning environment. In some cases I have been able to reach that level on the first day - others it takes a few encounters to get it rolling.
Hi Lori,
Good point. Respect helps make the learning process so much easier to conduct. Since respect must be earned then both parties, instructor and students have to work at it and this helps create the basis for student rapport.
Gary
Hi Richard,
Good advice on how to approach the classroom. Yes, students want to feel accepted and comfortable in their new class. Sending a supportive attitude is important for instructors. This way the class will get off to a good start for everyone.
Gary
Gaining students respect from the get go is so important to being seen as an instructor that knows the in and outs of the subject and can give it to the students.
student's are extremely nervous and apprehensive about starting a new class or career.They would be comforted to know that their instructor is not only capable,but fair and personable.An example might be if a student asks a question about the course,and your tone of voice may be a little terse because of something that happened in your personal life,the student may shy away from asking questions.This is one example of course.
Hi Jim,
How do you set the tone for the rest of your course with your first impression?
Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Hi Khalid,
Well said about first impressions. We need to always keep this in mind as we start a new class. We need to ask ourselves "How are the students viewing us?".
Gary
As first impression is the last impression,therefore as an insrructor we have to be very professional with the students and should also demonstrate that how knowledgeable ans skillful we are as an instructor.
It sets the tone for the balance of the course.
Setting a positive impression will gain the respect from the studnet's. this is important for the other courses you will teach. As we all know, student's will talk and express their feelings to other student's about instructors. If you can establish a positive impression and gain respect in your first class, your reputation will follow.
This has always worked for me.I always enter the classroom confident and deliver my lectures professionally.It has earned me respect from my students and also makes them to want to have me as an instructor over and over again.
Hi Robert,
This is a good point and I appreciate you making it. The instructor sets the tone for the class and the students move toward that tone or attitude. We have to bring our A game and enthusiasm to the class each time it meets.
Gary
is some time good to make a first impression good, make your self a role model for them so they can follow the foot step of yours to be a successful person
Your first impression will set the tone for the class. I let my students know that I am approachable and available. No ivory tower here. It is very important in nursing that you share mistakes you have made and acknowledge that they can bring their mistakes to you.
Hi Tiffany,
Good point about the need for a positive first impression as a foundation for the development of respect. Through student respect comes the development of rapport which helps to keep the students engaged and focused on learning outcomes.
Gary
By generating a positive first impression when starting a new class, an instructor can begin a chain of example that students can then mirror. This extends through organization, dress, attitude and achievement.
I totally agree with one of the other responses, that making a good first impression on the students will help with the respect that you will definetly need. You'll be respected as the class leader, instructor and advisor on how they should conduct themselves in their choosen careers. And if they respect you they will be able to pay attention and learn from you in your class.
