Introducing Myself as well as the course objective
The very first day is a long one. Intentionally.
I introduce myself completely. In other words, I reveal my years of exprience, why I love teaching and a litte on my family life. Just to let them know I am human. Then, I have them to introduce themselves and give a little background. This gives not only me but the other students a chance to know where everyone comes from and maybe see how they relate to being in front of others. Then when I have something more in common when I hear their stories then I expand on myself a little more. This does make them a little more comfortable with me. Then the teaching begins with no problems.
Hi Cory,
Students really like to know more about us as to how our credentials fit in line with our profession. When students know that you are qualified, it helps to put them at ease.
Patricia
I find letting the students know about my background helps them empathize with me as well, but it also gets them feeling more comfortable to share where they are coming from which helps me to find out how what they want to get out of the class and how best to help them learn the material.
Hi Karen,
Students want to know that they are learning from qualified knowledgeable instructors.
Patricia
I too always introduce myself and give my background experience. This not only helps the students to connect with you (know you are human), but it also assures them that you, as their instructor, has the knowledge and experience to instruct them.
Hi Christina,
It makes things more fitting for both the instructor and student whenever the instructor can empathize with the students. The students can see how fruitful the instructor turned out. Hard works really pays off.
Patricia
Hi Brenda,
Students want to hear from you on the first day. They really are interested in learning more about you, and the first day is the best time to share this information.
Patricia
I think this idea is crucial when teaching courses at a career-oriented institution- that you have been where they want to go. Furthermore, by creating a dialogue between students and teachers by introducing ourselves (highlighting our experiences, goals and strengths), the group will feel more comfortable and able to truly discuss material that is engaged with throughout the course.
on the first evening of class I usually go through the syllabus ,take questions and talk about my background, experience in the field and my own educational goals. Then one by one students are asked to tell the class about themselves and their goals. It relaxes them and gets them talking.
I teach the first class in my school and it is a busy busy day. About all I give the first day is my name and experience and the importance of being there every day.
In the first few days however I do open up more about myself and do try to learn more about the students and their background.
I really enjoy the introduction process. I feel it is important to let them know my work and education history, and the success I have had in the nursing field, and that I sat in the exact same seat as my VN students 13 years ago. I do this to empower them, and let them know I know where they are coming from, and that if they are more than capable of working as LVNs and continuing with their education. i enjoy hearing where they are coming from.
Hi Deidra,
This is always a great way to develop relationships and promote bonding. Things flow a lot smoother whenever students are comfortable in their surroundings.
Patricia
I always introdue my self and give a background related to the course material...i feel this helps them know i do have knowledge of the information i am trying to get to them....I also have them give a brief background of themselves so i have a good idea of how deep into the material I need to get.
