Just by being the instructor you have a small degree of credibility. Your first impression must reinforce student expectations. You are a professional with real world experience in the subject matter. If your students understand that you have this experience they will gain some respect. If you can further convey that you have a sincere interest in helping them gain this knowledge you can add to your credibility.
I agree. As a role model, the instructor must set the standard for professional behavior and expectations in the class.
Positive first impressions are important in any type of relationship initiation, especially for an instructor. The impression the instructor should strive for is one of a knowlegeable professional in the courses academic subject matter. Students making a positive judgement of the instructor's credentials are more likely to absorp and understand the material being delivered in class.
An old adage from almost any university/college Teaching degree curriculum is that it's easier to make a positive first impression (regardless what grade level K-12 to college courses) than to have to spend the rest of the semester trying to reshape, redefine or otherwise establish your role as a professional and the class instructor. This in itself is a "short" take on what was being shared throughout Module 3 on preparation, class process for the first meeting, all of the elements to make that first day an on-boarding and positive orientation experience.
Hi Lisa,
Right you are about the need for a positive first impression. What are some of the methods you use to create a positive image? Thanks in advance for sharing with us.
Gary
A positive first impression establishes a comfortable, enjoyable atmosphere in the classroom from the get-go that will benefit both the students and the instructor through the rest of the course. If students react positively to the instructor on that first day, they will be more likely to feel enthusiastic about their work in the class and react positively to course activities and expectations.
Hi Gabriel,
Right you are about first impressions. This is why careful planning needs to be done to help make that first impression a positive one for everyone.
Gary
First impressions last, thus laying down the policies and procedures for the course such as grading and expectations sets the tone for the course. Doing all of this is a professional manner without being intimidating is also imprtant as you want the students to stay motivated and interested in the course/program
There is no denying the first impression is the most important. That first impression gives the students a sense of trust, comfort, and if they can rely on you to provide the highest quality education possible.
Because the students will know that their expectations for the course are going to be covered. They will be more open to participate and to gain knowledge if they can relate with the instructor from the firs day.
Hi Katharine,
Thank you for sharing your perspective on being a young looking as well as young instructor that understands how to take control of a class. Being professional and having confidence are the ways that instructors can be the class leaders. Good job keep up the professionalism.
Gary
Being a new instructor and looking younger than I actually am, the first day tone setting is key for my class. When they see me professionally dressed, organized and clear about expectations they see me as the authority figure/leader that I am. They are also able to see my passion for my career in hopes it ignite a flame for the reason they are in the course.
Hi Tanya,
Good point. Often times the instructor makes the difference between bolting for the door and staying to learn more about the class. For non-traditional students it is generally traumatic for them going back to school anyway so they are looking for a friendly face and a supportive instructor. We need to be such instructors to those students.
Gary
A positive first impression is to seem approachable and knowledgeable. Students often feel a high level of anxiety so letting them know that they can approach you with questions can set them at ease and allow them to open up to the material.
Hi Mario,
Good point and one that needs to be reinforced frequently. The first impression sets the tone for the class so it is much easier to teach a class if the students are excited about the content and have an instructor that is enthusiastic.
Gary
A positive first impression is important for the students to really understand what is expected of them. I think this puts them at ease, and allows them to dedicate themselves to the course. And a positive first impression establishes the tone of the class, specifically your position as the instructor and the interaction amongst everyone in the class. Our courses encourage the adult students to interact and participate in discussion, a positive first impression is very important for the success of the course.
I think that a positive first impression gives students a sense of "roles" as well as helps them relax a bit. When your professional, reasonable and approachable the students see someone who will lead them, be fair and belongs in the position they are in.
Hi Ernesto,
What are some strategies you use to create a positive first impression with your students?
Gary
A positive first impression let's the students feel more secure about the person will teach them
Hi Mark,
Good point about how preparation contributes to the first impression. Good preparation gives the instructor confidence in his/her ability to set the stage for a successful course.
Gary
