Michael,
Well said and so important to make sure you don't make that misstep.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I believe it sets a tone for class with the students.
It sets the tone for the remainder of the semester/quarter. Once you make that mis-step it's often hard - if impossible - to recover.
Vladimir,
Like the proverb because it is very accurate. It really reinforces why we need to plan and be ready.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I know from my own experience that the very first impression is almost always correct. it will take some time and efforts to reverse it. It is like in old proverb: first blow is half the battle.
A positive first impression is important in that it says a lot about the instructor. If you show positivity towards your students, there is no room for any negative vibes in the classroom.
Jeff,
Well said and critical for a new class.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
we won't get a second chance to make a first impression
Robert,
So true and well said.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
First impressions are long lasting.You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
I agree it set the tone and aslo let the sudent know they can trust you and they wiil also respect you.
Stacy,
Thank you for sharing your beginning instructional experience. I know this information will be valuable to beginning instructors. I commend you for hanging tough and regaining control of the class and enabling your students to learn what they needed to from the course.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I made the mistake my first term in giving into nervousness during the first class period. I spent the rest of the term trying to get the students to respect me as an instructor instead of running roughshod over me. I finally got a handle on it, but it took most of the term. I will never make that mistake again! :)
The first impression can ultimately set the tone for the whole rest of the term, for the class. Showing the students that you are positive and passionate about both teaching and them learning the material, helps them to trust that they are going to get a quality education.
Christopher,
So true and something we need to remind ourselves of each time we start a new class.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Making a quality first impression helps to establish your pressence within the classroom or life in general. You can not go back in time and "put your best foot foward" so you must strive to do the best you can with what you have now.
Nashon,
Right you are. What are some ways you make sure you make a positive first impression when starting a new class?
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
This is extremely important because you want your students to know that they got their money's worth.
Marisela,
So true and so critical to getting a class started off in a positive way.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
A good first impression sets the stage for the rest of the course. If students see that the instructor is passionate about the material and well organized, they work harder and take the instructor and the course more seriously.
