Nothing better than starting the class off on the right foot. It quickly sets the expectations, commitments, and envolvement by the class.
A positive first impression is crucial to inform the students that you are approachable and that your mission is to instil the knowledge they not only need to know to take an exam but to take with them in the working field. You do not want to 'put off' them from the first day. You could easily lose a student with much potential just becuase you are unapproachable.
It is important to make a positive impression the first class to set the tone for the rest of the course. It will make student aware of what kind of professor your are and what you expect from them as students.
Anca,
So true and very important in the development of student rapport.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first impression is letting the students know that you are there for them. Offer support and mentoring students in and outside of the classroom.
Let them know that you care about them.
A first impression is the only chance to set the standards for that class.
They need to know that you are human, just like them :) and are approachable
Erika,
Well said. They need to see their instructor as the learning leader and as a result know they can learn from and respect what they say.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Introducing yourself to the students, giving them an understanding in to most positive enviroment what you expect throughout the course. Allowing open communication, making their first day of class a positve experience. I have found that with new students, they want to feel comfortable with a new instructor. If they feel intimidated at the beging, this could cause a learning issue.
You only have one chance to make a positive first impression. How you conduct yourself, your grooming, your attire, your attitude all help set the stage for a positive learning environment.
Lairlyn,
What are some successful strategies you use to create a positive first impression?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is very important, so an instructor can start earning the respect of the student .
I feel very important to make positive first impression. It sets the tone for entire course, and tells the students that you care about them and you are serious about instructing the course. There is nothing worst than a instructor who comes to class late and is dis-organized. This says to the student that you are not important and I don't care about this course.
Christine,
I agree with your assessment of the value of a positive first impression. It sets the tone for the upcoming class sessions so it needs to be right on the very first time.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think a good first impression lets your students know you really want to be there to help them. It's true you don't get a second chance to make a good first impression. I think it's crucial to show up on time or early with a great attitude, come organized and excited to meet all your new students, set clear and stimulating expectations and show you will be available and willing to help them through the entire course.
Pamela,
Right you are. So important to establish a positive learning environment right up front and then build on it from there.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
The moment students behold the instructor, they are already forming judgements on the teacher's crediblity and potential success in educating said students. Therefore, it is best to instill the utmost confidence in them by being the best professional possible by making a great first immpression.
Positive first impression is the key to a successful class. If you have a bad impression, they will not respect you, or not follow your easy easy.
First impression are lasting impressions. When you are meeting students for the first time we need to convey a professional well put together image. We need to convey to the students what we want to see in them.
I think it gives them security to trust you to educate them, as well as feel good about themselves for signing up for the course.
