First Day
Establishing open communications with students so they will understand the importance of finding answers to their questions and hopefully if the need arises to ask for assistance if needed. Students need to know that the instructor will assist or advice, if possible and if they can’t maybe they know someone or some organization who can provide assistance.
During the first session while going over the syllabus and class prospectus, I discuss what is expected of them, what they will be doing, why they need the course, what they learn can be used in the real world, hands-on experiences, and goals. Attendance and class participation are encouraged along with code of academic integrity.
Understand the courses I teach are five hours long so a lot of information is given in each session along with lab time to complete their assignments. As an instructor, I give my students 10 minute breaks every hour so they can relax and re-group.
On the first day of class, I go over, in detail, the syllabi, as well as all of the policies and procedure for the class. I also hand out a course outline or calander so every student knows what to expect for the entire class. Students enjoy structure.
Hi Jerame,
I think this is a great idea about goal setting. Whenever new students enroll, as their mentor I have them set goals, and I use the goal sets as a retention tool if they decide they are thinking about quitting school.
Patricia
Usually, I cover the usual course basics (rules, expectations, etc). I also go around the room and have the students set a goal for themselves for the term.
I've only recently started doing this, but I feel that it helps the students work on their goal setting as well as give them an opportunity to have an obtainable objective for the course.
Has anyone else been doing anything similar? What have your results been?
Let them know what is expected from them and what they can expect from you.
I enjoyed reading the section on "ice breakers" as that is an excellent way for the students to relax the first day and get to know each other and me. I am a new instructor and need all the little bits of informaton I can gather from others that have been there. I agree that going over the syllabus and course material to be covered lets the students know why they are taking this class and how it will fit into the bigger picture.
Hi Connie,
Your students are so fortunate to have you as their instructor. Experience truly is the best teacher! It is great to know that we still have educators who are geniunely passionate about the profession.
Patricia
Hi Patricia,
I try to make the student comfortable and interested at the same time. After we know each other better, then I introduce my background and give examples throughout the course. I have been teaching for about 30+ years and love what I do. My student have commended on how it shows in my attitude towards them and the subject matter. I have been blessed regarding people I meet and teach.
I have enjoyed this course and hope to continue to learn new and different methods. Thanks.
Hi Connie,
You do a thorough overview on the first day! I can tell you put great effort into letting your students know that you are personable and approachable.
Patricia
I start my classes talking about me. I am a former US Marine and have a gruff personality sometimes (or at least thats the way it comes across). I tell them my experience in the field and my history as an instructor...but I also tell my students about me so they can see I am just a regular person. I have feelings and emotions just as they do. I tell them I was student just like them (started college at 30) and went through some of the same things they are going through (loss of jobs, lack of money, etc). I tell them this so they understand that I do understand. But I also let them know that I graduated at the top of my class and missed only one day of school. That part is so they understand it can be done. I tell them they must find the one thing that brought them to school in the first place and hold onto it. I let them know that even though that one thing may get hidden under all the stress of school and life....they have to hold onto it. Thats what will get them through.
I explain I am always open and available for any questions they have but they are responsible to ask the questions. I try to make them see that they are responsible for their own learning and that I am there to guide them on the journey.
After that, we take a break and then come backt discuss the syllabus and class information.
