Great point It is liking starting at your own 5 yard line on 3rd down rather than 1st and ten at the 20!
Scott
A first impression is ever lasting. It sets the stage. The first impression can and will make the learning environment a positive one or negative.
It is like trust:
Very hard to earn;
Very easy to lose;
Very difficult to earn back?
Scott
Making a positive first impression is the most important component in any environment teaching or otherwise. When I had to do a presentation of Thai massage in front of a large group of students, I was truly nervous. When I explained that I had never taught before, and hopefully the students would bare with me,and forgive my inexperience was the best thing I could have done. The students helped me position the mat where everyone could see it. A few of them took the hand-outs I brought and distributed them, and settled back down to focus on what I had to offer. It was amazing how they responded to me. I did a mini lecture on the history of Thai massage and after the demo (which was a huge hit) they asked a ton of questions and wanted to learn the technique right then and there! It was one of the most awesome experiences I ever had. I believe it was my honesty that they respected the most.
I agree! If one doesn't make a positive impression the student will immediately feel that the course may be a waste of time, or that they will not learn the necessary content.
The first impression sets the stage for the whole semester. The instructor should show that he/she is in charge, but still allow input from students. A positive outlook creates a better learning environment for the group as a whole.
I think that the key to positive first impression is to how I communicate a positive and enthusiastic attitude; paying attention to body language so that I create a feeling that I am likeable and easy to talk to, this will form a positive first impression at the beginning of the class as well as set the tone for supportive learning environment.
People make judgments about you in the first five minutes of meeting you. It is very hard to change a person's mind after they have made their judgments.
a positive first impression is important because you want the student to know what you are expecting of them and what they can expect from you.
Hi Amy,
Go for it. Just relax and enjoy your students. Before you know it you will settled into the class and developing rapport with your students.
Gary
A positive first impression would include checking your spelling!
Whereever you go, fist impression is important because the other person's mind set usually depends on it. People tends to judge other by the appearance because that's what people see first. So I think dressing properly for the setting is important as a first impressiong.
Shows the instructors interest in the class and dedication to learning
I love the idea of humor as an ice breaker. As a first time Instructor I am nervous about that first class & will try humor to hopefully break the ice.
I believe that making a positive first impression fosters trust. If the students trust you based on first impression, your qualifications, etc, they are more likely to learn from you. If they don't trust you and your abilities, they will not be as motivated to learn from you. This trust also enables them to come to you with issues or concerns. I always want my students to feel they can come to me.
Oh, I feel this is the most important step to beginning a new class. I walk into my new class with confidence and big smiles. I dig deep for my most friendly attitude. Every student, even if I'm teaching a class of 40 students is addressed by me. I make myself very approachable from the get go!
Hi Marie,
Way to set the stage for your students. They get to see a professional that cares about their success. Each of these areas contribute to the develop of the emotional, social and professional development of your medical assistants. Keep up the good work.
Gary
I am a registered nurse, teaching medical assistants. I wear a white lab coat and have my hair pulled up and present a professional look. I see my students try to look more professional themselves as they want to succeed in the class. As I also tell my students, " a smile is your most important accessory."
It always amazes me how significant a first impression is. It's a starting point that one can then gauge upon throughout the class. I love to be myself and I think that the students' anxiety is lifted because they know I am "real".
Hi Laura,
All of the things you mentioned contribute to the making of a positive impression. This I believe build the foundation for the development respect and rapport with the students. These two elements are essential for creating a professional and comfortable learning environment for the students.
Gary
I agree that making a first impression is very valuable in that you gain better respect from your students and show them by example what proffesionalism is all about.
