As the saying goes lead by example. Set your expectations high and your students will strive to meet those expectations.
I really like the idea of having the students play of game of bingo with terms and definitions. I think it is very important to get the students talking with one another early on in the course.
I usually have the students interview one another and present their partner to the class on the first day instead of just having them stand up and introduce themselves. That way, there is at least one other person in the class they feel comfortable with.
As the class progresses, I will create groups of 3 or 4 with different students so they get a chance to meet and talk with everyone in the class.
This is so important to their involvement and participation. They can feel a part of something and not alone in a new environment learning a new and frightening subject. Plus they have others to ask questions if they are too shy to ask the instructor.
Hi Robert,
This is very true. The good first impression sets the tone for upcoming course and serves as a reference point for the students.
Gary
Yes! You are not just the instructor passing out bits of fact and knowledge - you are a model of attitude, behavior, and excellence.
I believe that if you make a good first impression you will make your students feel a little more relaxed and believe that you are someone they will be able to learn from.
Making a positive first impression starts the course off right. I want my students to like the course and want to learn the material. If my first impression is a bad one, it might sour the students from wanting to come to class. If the students don't like the class it will take all semester to try and win them back.
Just asn the social environment the classroom reflects the norms of society and set the path for all interactions.
Hi Michelle,
Passion sells. Students that have an instructor that is passionate about his/her field and is willing to help others prepare to enter it is going to enjoy a much higher motivation level among the students. This makes teaching exciting because the students are focused on learning about the field so they can become a part of it.
Gary
Being passionate about your job from the time you walk in is the key.
Show the students that you enjoy your profession, teach with passion that makes the students eager to learn from you, it also keep the student interested.That's how I make a first positive impression.
Smile, such a simple concept that gets overlooked all the time! Good thought Linda, thanks, Chris Graves.
I agree Shawn, some students want to know what they can get away with or how far they can get under somebody's skin. By making a strong, lasting impression an Instructor can help detour some of the mischief and headaches you might have in the future. Thanks, Chris Graves.
That's very true Aimee. Is there anything in particular that you do in order to make a grand first impression? I am always looking for ideas. Thanks, Chris.
Hello Alejandro,
I agree, the first impression will either make your time teaching easy or difficult. It will also effect how the students learn. For example, if they see you are unprepared they might get the impression they don't need to be prepared either, and as such, they might not complete their tasks on time because it is perceived that it doesn't matter. Thanks, Chris Graves.
A positive first impression is very important because you want to be able to convey to the class that you are human as well as a person of leadership, and in doing so, help give the students the confidence they need to do their best and relax during class.
Opinions are formed and based on the first interaction people have, and if you come across as uncaring or unorganized, the students will pick up on this right away and ponder why you are teaching or if you even care about the subject matter or the students.
In short, we need to show the students we care and "have it together" so the student feels at ease which will help assist them in their learning experience. Thanks, Chris Graves.
Hi Jacqueline,
This is one of the outcomes of being a teacher. You are influencing the next generation of professionals in your field while leaving a legacy of success.
Gary
I think a positive first impression is important because the students look up to the instructors as role models. I would want my students to rely on me and look up to me as a role model. I am taking what I know and passing my information on to them. I want them to be as successfull as I am in my carreer.
The students wants a knowledgeable leader and you have to make a positive impression in order for the students to believe in you.
Students are nervous when they are coming back to school. They do not know what to expect so they have anxiety. However, when a teacher makes a good first impression it puts the students at ease.
A positive first impression should always be set on the first day of class. It helps establish student ease and confidence. Students feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. It also helps establish Instructor influence and control of the course.
