It is true that a positive first impression will or can set the tone for the whole course. First impressions are of upmost importance.
Students follow by example. If you present yourself in a negative or unprofessional manor. They will think it is ok for them to do the same. Giving student a clear understanding of what I expect of them is nothing less than I expect from myself. By me being on time and always giving 110% of my attention to them during class time. I also require the same from them in return.
Kit,
This is essential if the class is to get off to a good start. Having everyone on the same page and looking forward to the upcoming course sets the tone for learning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A positive first impression helps the class become much more comfortable in there invironment and it makes the class secure in what you are teaching is correct
I think it sets the tone for the entire class.
A positive first impression will help the student get a feel of how the class is ran. This will help the student relieve any stress about the class.
Kristen,
You have that right. I always start a new class with this statement. "In this class courtesy is owed (meaning I will give you courtesy as a fellow human being), respect is earned and it goes two ways, my direction and yours and rapport is developed." This statement shows them how they can settle into the course and be successful if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
You NEED to gain their respect from day 1 or it will be a very hard task to keep them on track.
I think a positive first impression is important because you only get one. It is harder to fix a negative image then start off with a strong first impression. The mind sets up barriers that are harder to break through once a negative first impression has been established.
NATELLE,
This is true and when there is tension in the classroom there will be reduced engaged and learning. This does not bode well for anyone if that is the status of the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Moses,
So true and so important to maintaining a ongoing and positive relationship with your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A positve first impression establishes you as a role model and a mentor for the students. You dont want to make a bad first impression, then the students will lose respect for you and tension can develop in the classroom.
Courtney,
Exactly and this is why planning needs to include how the first day will be conducted.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Positive first impression sets a tone for the remainder semester and or term...
I agree. Not only does it establish an an envrionment of mutual respect, but can also set the stage for the remainder of class. This provides students with an idea of how your class is run.
I think it is important because if you get that respect right off the bat they will work harder for you
Mouda,
Very good point. If you start with a negative image it is going to be hard to dig out of the negative hole that has been dug. So much easier to start positive and build from there.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Linda,
Good reminder for us all as we start a new class. This way we will work harder to be prepared and dynamic in our approach to the classroom since this is the kind of instructor we would want to have.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is important to make a positive first impression because first impressions or lasting and they usually set the stage for the course so if you send a negative message as the instructor the students could become negative which may result in them failing the course or dropping out.
it allows the students to feel comfortable and it gains their trust in the instructor not only in the field but as an individual
