Time line
the fisrt impression is crucial in establishing rapport with your students. I always have my student to introduce themselves in the class and tell me a unique thing about him/herself. In thefirst meeting I refrain from lecture and spend a good amount of time to know my students.
Donna,
The not lecturing part depends on the length of the class. My classes are 6 hours long from 4 until 10 pm. So the first hour we do introductions, and ice breakers. After a break we then go into the business of the course, meaning handing out the syllabus and reviewing course details, then I do an activity that gives students success while showing them how the course is going to operate. I wrap up the evening with content sharing in a general way. This way a lot of variety has been offered, business has been conducted and learning facilitated. The sets the tone for the upcoming course.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I think the first impression is crucial but I am not sure I would not lecture the first class. I guess it would depend on the average age of the students. Do you consider age, day or evening class, etc. when planning the first day?
