Daniel,
You have a very interesting group of students in your classes. You are so right about the need to be at the top of your game with this group. You have to work at earning their respect from the second you walk into the class. This is some very high stakes teaching.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. It only take 5 minutes for a student to form an opinion (positive or negative) of an instructor. Appearance, body language, your demeanor, mannerisms, and how you are dressed are all key factors of professionalism. Making those first encounters are extremely important, for they set the tone for all the relationships (teaching/learning environment) that follows.
The student's first impression of their instructor most definitely sets the tone for the duration of the class. It is important to give a positive tone, as well as be physically and mentally presentable. A professional attitude is a must, seasoned with an approachability. Gaining the student's attention in a positive light will aid in their learning and success in the class.
Making a positive first impression is important because it helps motivate the students and prepare them for the entire course. The first impression gives the students an idea about the instructor’s personality, teaching style and professionalism. It also helps them to visualize how their learning experience will be like.
First impressions really are key as an instructor. Here at our course the students are leaders in the field and have a minimum of 15 years of experience (most are more like 20+ years). If you show up and are not at the top of your game in terms of physical appearance, delivery method, experience, knowledge and attitude the class will turn off in a hurry. Their time will be spent looking for faults rather than learning and participating.
Machuria,
Thank you for these good comments about how to make a positive first impression with students. You are right about the need to have your soft skills ready and your intuition on high alert. This is how you will establish yourself as the learning leader as well as get a "read" of the students. From there on it is a building process in the areas of respect and rapport.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Making a positive first impression on the first day of class sets the precedents for the rest of the semester. The students are sizing the instructor up to determine what personality type they will be with for however long the module or semester last. The bullies are trying to determine if this is an instructor that they will be able to run over and hold the classroom hostage with bad behavior. Also there are students watching the instructor to determine if they will be a good role model or mentor.
Students watch have an instructor dresses, speaks, interaction with themselves and other students. They are trying to determine if they are going to stay in your class and/or be successful.
In closing, you only have the start of the class to make a good impression, as an instructor, you must win by minding your manners and behavior. The first day of class is when your soft skills and intuition are on high alerts. You must be cognitive that students are sizing you up and forming opinions.
