reaching first time students
upon the first day of class not only do I hope to have a great first impression, but want to be able to reach my students intellectually
Anthony,
Good point. With first timers you get to set the tone for the course while imposing your personality and professionalism on the climate and structure of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
on the first day in class i hope to have more first time students.it is more rewarding for me to start from scratch.
Brenda,
I like the way you establish course expectations for both you and the students. This way you can get them to focus on meeting the course requirements while you provide the support needed throughout the sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
In my position meeting the class for the first time is extremely important due to the diversity of my students. I have older students, students with some experience in higher education, and recent high school graduates. It is important for me to convey to each student that I will effectively teach them the course materials at a level that will allow them to learn. I communicate to the class my teaching methods, testing criteria, etc., and my expectations that they will fulfill their responsibilities in completing homework and assignments. When the students understand that I, as their instructor, will meet their expectations they are more willing to strive to meet the goals and expectations placed on them by the course, their instructor and their career choice.
Ahmed,
This is the foundation for the development of student rapport. Then it is a building process from there throughout the remainder of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Holly,
It is so important for them to know that their instructor is supportive of their efforts. Many adult students are afraid they won't be successful after being out of school for a while. Your approach gives them an understanding of how the class will be conducted and that you are there to support them if they will put forth the effort to be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
This practice helps both students and teachers understand one another. Most of the times the students get an idea on how the teacher will be during lectures and so forth
when teaching adult students, I have learned that they like to look at the teacher as someone who will guide them through this process and be there for them if they need help. I like to start a good relationship with my students right from the start so they feel like they are not alone in this education process.
