It allows the students to be able to see that you are qualified to teach this class. It sets a positive tone for which the class can build upon over the course. Helps to establish that you are accessible and will and wanting them to succeed in the course and overall program.
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because it sets the tone for the upcoming weeks and shows that you will conduct the class in a professional manner. Hopefully the students will model your optimism.
The instructor sets the stage for the entire session. That first day can set the tone for all the courses to follow. Students feed off of the instructors energy.
Hi Dianne,
Good strategy for getting the names of students down so quickly. This is important to convey the message of caring about them and their success.
Gary
A Positive first impression is very omportatn it puts studetns at ease about the course you need to show you are prepared and ready to teach. You as an instructor need to model the expectations of the class. Starting on time, dressed professionaly and friendly and open with the students.
I, too, let my students know I am there to help in every way, that I want them to succeed but they must do their part, too. One of the ways I let my students know I care is to learn their name within the first three days. I also tell the class I know people have different learning styles and process information differently, so I will explain material every way possible till it is fully understood by everyone.
Dianne
I agree with the "being prepared" each day. I tell my students on their first day how excited I am to meet them and it is a privilege to be their "first learning step" on their way to an exciting, rewarding, challenging career. My enthusiasm is obvious BUT if I do not follow up with being prepared to teach them what they need each day, I have lost credibility. I, too, let the students know my expectations. I relate the classroom expectations to those expectations of them when they are in their place of employment.
Dianne
Hi Tim,
Good way to start a class off. You are showing respect for the students and in return earning the respect of the students. This creates a win win for everyone and gives a solid foundation to build on throughout the class.
Gary
Besides the usual clip-board of topics to be discussed and proper syllabus for distribution we have appearance and bearing to display as examples of professionalism.
Our students pay (or will be paying) good money to get their education. They sometimes size up the instructor to see if he or she will be "worth" it.
I try to make the point to my class on day one that my #1 goal is their success. I am their for them to make sure the information in my class reaches them one way or another. Once we have that trust established even the shyest of students will approach me if they need help. It really sets the tone for learning.
Hi Mary,
This is important in order to have a setting that is supportive of learning. What are some ways you go about letting the students know you are in charge? Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Hi Anne,
First impressions help to set the tone for the class so planning should be made to make them positive. With ice breakers and introductions the students can get to know you and each other so everyone is comfortable in the class.
Gary
Hi Mellisa,
You make a key point concerning student respect. As a part of planning for positive first impression opportunities there needs to be activities that will facilitate the earning of respect by both you the instructor and the students.
Gary
Hi Judith,
I like the way you describe the approach to the first class meeting. The strong, gentle approach is critical for setting the stage for a successful course experience by students.
Gary
Hi Victor,
Right you are. What are some ways you show your students that you are the class leader and that the class is going to go well?
Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Hi Paul,
Good point about knowing your students and how they will react to your sharing stories about your work experience. It seems that ever so often I have a class that includes students like those you describe. I am like you in that I am not going to give them any reason to pick on me and my abilities from the beginning of the course. I have other classes where the students enjoy the stories I share about mistakes I have made. Together we have some laughs and move on with the course.
Gary
Hi Paul,
Right you are about the first impression. Students need to have confidence in their instructors and feel that they are in good hands concerning the upcoming course. The more instructors can instill confidence in their students the better the start to the course.
Gary
Hi James,
You can't have too much preparation behind you when planning for a course. By being prepared you feel much more comfortable in front of the students and they in turn comfortable with you.
Gary
I want my students to know who is in charge of the classroom so that I can create a positive environment for learning.
You never have a second chance to make that first impression. It sets the tone for the class. I helps you to gain the respect of the students to ensure a successful outcome for the students.
