Meeting a New Class
This section was very interesting. Not only do the students feel anxiety, I feel anxiety as well the first night of class. Introductions are a great way to combat nervousness. During my time teaching, I have come to the conclusion that telling the students something personal makes them feel more at ease.
The way our classes are structured, we have returning students and new students together when we change terms. I have all the students participate in "who I am and why I'm here" exercises. Every term that way new students can feel comfortable with me and their new class members.
Telling stories or personal experiences also helps them to relate & feel more at ease that you are a real person and have an understanding about what they are going through
Asya,
It is OK to have some nerves when starting a new class. This means that you are excited about starting a new group of students and looking forward to meeting them. As you do introductions and an ice breaker you will forget the nerves and start to enjoy this new group that you are going to interact with the next few weeks.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree, I do get nervous but I am also excited to start afresh with a new group as each group is different and they will have their own challenges with the course. My work is to identify these challenges during their course and address them
Ice breakers are a good way to get to know your students. You need to participate also in the ice breakers. You are developing a trusting relationship
Monika,
Been teaching for over thirty years and I still get nervous as I prepare to walk into a new class of students. I find that these nerves help me to stay fresh and excited about the content I am going to share and students I am going to meet. So it is OK to be nervous as you start a new group of students. Keep in mind they are nervous to.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Good to know that even seasoned instructors still feel nervous before meeting a class.
LeeAnne,
This is how I feel as well even after teaching for many years. Having the nervous when meeting a new class of students lets me know that I am still excited about teaching and looking forward to kicking off another class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
