It sets the tone of how the class will be taught and what the students should expect from their instructor. It creates a trusting, supportive environment for the students. It can help to relieve the anxiety that students may have on their first day of the class.
One thing I was always taught, was that first impressions count. As an instructor, I want to come across with a great impression to the students. Someone that has confidence and knows the material and wants to share with the students. Sometimes my first impression of some of the students aren't very good and when I get to know them better, it changes. I want them to feel comfortable in the class, not be afraid to speak up/ask questions. I want them to learn and have a great experience while learning.
students can feel how comfortable they will be in your class and whether you are approachable and open
Greeting everyone before class and having a ten to fifteen minute 'getting to know each other' session has a tremendous imact on the class and reduces anxiety in my opinion.
yes especially in trying situations. its a great idea to re-group n walk away to clear your thoughts.
Robin,
Like your approach to "selling" them on their career choice. You are a role model for them and your enthusiasm shows them that they have made the right choice and that through hard work they can become a part of an exciting career area.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The students are nervous and they want reassurance that they have chosen the right career for them. By modeling professionalism and discussing what they will learn in an excited manner will show them they have made the right decisiona and they will get excited about learning.
Saneva,
Building on a positive first impression is so much easier and much more rewarding than trying to dig out of a hole created by negative impressions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Holli,
It is the foundation upon what the course will build in the coming class sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree! First impressions set presidence for the students. You can either gain their respect or lose it on that first day.
A positive first impression sets the standard for the entire course. Competence, professionalism, and personality will be gauged the first class.
Peter,
A positive first impression is the foundation upon which the rest of the class is built. This is why it is so important to have a good first class session planned for the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe that making a positive first impression is key in all situations, especially in starting a new class or career. It has been said that we make a solid judgment of a person within the first five seconds of meeting them. FIVE SECONDS!! If your students have a negative first impression of you, they are less likely to respect your role as an instructor.
A positive first impression is important when starting a new class because your first impression means alot. We all have met someone and have chosen not to deal with or work with them because of their first impression. Students may not give us another chance so we must make sure that the first impression is a postitive one.
A first impression may set the tone for the rest of the semester. It is imperative that students have a good first impression of you and a positive feeling about the course.
Norman,
Right you are and this is why you need to be ramped up and ready to go the first class meeting. You want them to see your passion for your field and your enthusiasm for teaching about it.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Stefanie,
This sets the tone for the upcoming class and gives the students an insight to how the class is going to operate. Knowing they can approach you and ask their questions is a great relief to them.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Franco,
Good point about how to capture the focus of students. A good first impression helps that to occur and then it build from there. A good first impression helps the students see that they are going to have a good course and enjoy their time in the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A positive first impression is very important. You have to set the tone with them. The students have to know you are a competent instructor and communicator.
I think it sets the tone for the class. I usually like my students to know that I'm friendly and approachable, fair and consistent. I want them to know upfront what I expect of them and I usually ask what they are expecting from me. I'm a real person, like they are.
