A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because the students cannot learn in a supportive, secure environment when there is a negative first impression. A positive first impression helps to prevent students from withdrawing from the course or even possibly dropping out of school altogether.
A positive first impression will create your cedability with the students.
Jose,
Right you are about first impressions. They are the foundation of from which respect is earned and rapport developed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A positive first impression sets the tone for all future classes with the instructor and perhaps how the teacher is viewed outside the classroom. To me, first impressions are everything!
Daniel,
Thank you for these key points about the value of making a good first impression. A good foundation as we know is the foundation upon which the rest of the course builds.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It's an instant way to convey respect for the class and in return to lay the foundation for earning their respect. Taking the time to prepare, teaching a subject you truly feel passionate about and putting forth the effort to make the class engaging shows that you take it at least as seriously as your students should. It also illustrates that you value the commitment in time and effort your students have made and that they are in good hands.
Cynthia,
Well said and a great goal to have. Over coming their fear the first day goes a long way in getting them settled into the course and feeling that they can be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I teach algebra. Many students have had bad experiences with poor math teachers. Therefore, I want to make them as comfortable as possible about the course. I want the students to leave class the first day with less fear than they showed up with. This can only happen if I present myself as patient, knowledgeable, organized, fair, and caring. The students need to know immediately that I will answer their questions and give them a plan for success.
I agree, because student look to the instructors as this is my key to my success, understanding how the instructor lay the foundation.
matthew,
You need to own the classroom or lab and that is what you are doing with your movement. Also moving around helps to keep the students engaged as you have experienced.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I'm up and moving around constantly keep the students eyes engaged and focused on me. I speak positively about the subject matter.
matthew,
What are some ways you convey your enthusiasm for teaching your content?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I feel the more enthusiastic you are the more the students will want to participate and react.
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class, because these first impressions can be nearly impossible to reverse or undo. Therefore, making those first encounters are extremely important, for they set the tone for all the relationships that follows.
John,
What are some methods you use to create a positive first impression with your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Douglas,
Yes, it does and this is why it is so important to have a positive first impression because it is the foundation upon which the course is built.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
If you make a positive first impression to your students they will respect you.
Your class's first impression of you as a Professional Instructor is one of the most important points to succeed at on your first day. It is what most students base everything else about you and the content that you provide. From your appearance to your orderly manner and timeliness, all of this leaves a lasting impression.
Misty,
The first impression is the foundation upon which the rest of the course is built. We need to make sure it is a positive one for the students because from this impression can come the earning of their respect and the development of rapport.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A first impression is everything! If i walk into a roomand appear unprepared, the student will not respect anything that comes out of my mouth. Again, i put myself in their shoes.... what are my expectations of my Professor?? Thats what I base myself upon
