well, and your 1st impression may be your last impression!
Making a positive first impression is vital for the success of the class.
Your appearance,voice, movements around the classroom,personality, and attention to everyone is extremely important.
If there is not a good first impression, you may risk of losing that student the rest of the course.
I agree! A first impression is the one always remembered!
Delores,
Belief and trust form the foundation for respect which leads to rapport. A positive first impression helps the process to move forward to the benefit of the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Jeffrey,
You make a number of good points but one that really stands out to me is that you are showing them how a successful graduate should present him or herself. This creates a role model for them to work toward throughout the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Mary,
Information like this is so valuable to students. Knowing that they have a caring professional that is going to help them be successful if they will put forth the needed effort is critical. You are doing such with your approach so you have set the stage for them as the course unfolds.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A positive first impression will give the students the motivation that they will draw from your positive impression. They will believe in you, trust you and know that they will get the learning that they need.
It sets the tone for the teacher/student relationship. What is expected, how a successful graduate would want to present oneself and most importantly a good first impression helps to convince the student that the course has value and creates the drive to learn the material and pass the course.
You need to establish yourself as a capable, fair leader of the class. Reassure the students that they are in the right place and will be capable of completing the course successfully. Continue with introductions to put the students at ease and prepare them for learning.
Dave,
Well said. This is such an important part of the total teaching effort. A good first impression gets the students engaged and looking forward to the upcoming class sessions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe it establishes your credibility. It puts the class at ease to create an atmosphere condusive to learning. The vast majority of students want to do well in their classes and add the instructor's knowledge to their learning for future success. It is much easier to learn when the student feels comfortable with the instructor. The saying "you never get a second chance to make a good first impression" is very true for the teacher/student relationship.
Dave Wood
Martin,
The first class meeting is the foundation upon which the course is built so it needs to be a positive one just as you say. Through introductions and ice breakers the students can get to know each other and get settled into the class. This sets the stage for the upcoming sessions and the engagement of the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
That positive first impression will set the standard moving forward. They will become more engaged as students if you are taking that extra time to be prepared for their overall learning experience. Much like when you start a new job or interview. You want to convey not only a positive first impression, but you want your learners to have the awareness you know what you are doing.
Albert,
What are some strategies you use in the first class meeting to get the students excited about coming back for the next class?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
First impressions are everything. It's important for students to leave the first class wanting to come back.
Chenal,
Well put about the need for establishing a positive and supportive environment from day one. This is how students become engaged in the learning process and focus on the content that is to come.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Maria,
You make a very good point about your role as the learning leader. Thank you for your mention of how to work with cohort groups. They can be a challenge but your approach helps to establish your position in the learning process and how the group can benefit from your leadership.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It's always been said, "you only have one chance to make a first impression." Therefore, when the students come into class for the first time, they need to "see everything is in place." Their first impression is not only of the teacher, but the classroom and all surroundings. Once they feel at ease because all around them is in order, they can continue on the correct path. I once learned: "Take Distractions out of Learning" and students learn easier. It is so important to take extra time "preparing" for class, than to stumble through later.
A first impression establishes the instructor's credibility and enthusiasm for the course and a willingness to share this expertise with the students. Positive behaviors from the instructor will generate positive behaviors from the students and create a positive learning environment which lead to student success.
In my teaching situation (I teach part time) and teach intermittent segments of a course. Making a strong, positive first impression is critical especially in relating to and working with Cohort Groups and establishing yourself as a credible leader and expert in their field.
Jamie,
That is a big hole to dig out of when you have started the class off in a negative way. You make a good point about a positive first impression being necessary.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
