Nelia,
A great first class with enjoyable introductions and ice breakers goes a long in setting the stage for a positive first impression as well as how the students view the upcoming class sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
When a starting a new class, a positive first impression will motivate the students to pursue and be successful in their chosen career. A positive tone will keep students engaged and focused in their learning process.
Veronica,
This is such a critical part of getting a course off to a good start. Instructors need to work hard at making the first class session and exciting, informative and engaging session so the students will look forward to coming back to the class the next time and each time thereafter.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Jennifer,
All of these elements send signals to students that their instructor is a dedicated, prepared and organized professional that is ready to be their learning leader. By them knowing this the stage is set for launching a successful class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. Students get an idea of what to expect. They will know by the first class whether you portray and professional mannerism as well as how they will be treated
Making a positive first impression is important for it builds the rapport with the student. Students need to feel comfortable, welcomed, and respected. They want to see an instructor who is professional yet approachable. They want to see a partner in helping them succeed!
Dina,
The first class meeting is the foundation upon which future sessions will be built. It is critical that the first meeting be a well prepared and focused one that gets everyone settled into the course and feeling comfortable.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think first impressions are important because you set the stage for the students expectations of you, and what their learning process will be from that point forward. Being organized, on time, finding a way to connect, and providing course handouts and syllabus etc lets the student know you are just as interested in teaching them as they are about learning what you have to offer. I also think it shows you care about their education, to show enthusiasm and psych the students up for what you have in store for them.
You want to put the students at ease. They are already nervous about the class so you want to give a positive first impression so that they are not as nervous and will more likely be successful in the class.
As everyone has mentioned, a first impression really sets the stage for the entire course. For example if you go in on the first day unprepared this is what the students will remember no matter how prepared you are for the rest of the course. It is said the first impression is the last impression. The lessons stated that a well prepared instructor helps ease the fear of the unknown and what the class is all about. Going in with a positive attitude, a well prepared syllabus, and a well prepared class outline and lecture starts the class out on the right foot.
Linda,
Good approach to take because your movement helps to include every part of the room as well as the students in the learning process. This way no one gets left out.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Shelly,
My experience as well and why I work very hard at making the first class session a big deal for the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Jessie,
Yes it does. A good first impression helps to establish you as a professional that can help them move toward their career goals which can be a big motivator for the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I totally agree about moving about the class and getting the students involved from the very beginning. I use active learning methods starting from the introduction.
It has been my experience that a positive first impression relates to my students "motivation and excitement" for what I do.
Students appreciate that a teacher wants to help them to become successful. A good first impression sets the tone for the course and give the students a great outlook.
Arthur,
So true and so important in getting a new class off to a good start. What are some strategies you use to get your classes off to a good start and make a good impression? Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Remember the statement on first impressions? You will never get a better time than the first time and it sets the stage for success or failure.
Malana,
So true and so important for the students to observe as you start the new class. This way you are modeling for them how they need to create a positive first impression when they are entering the workplace.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Linda,
So true about a negative impression. With planning and enthusiasm you can set a positive tone and then build from there. Why start any other way?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
