The first day.
It is the perfect opportunity to start creating an image while explaining the boundaries of classroom activities.
CLEAR boundaries, policies, guidelines, expectations, and deadlines discussed on the first day go a long way toward a smooth running course, and complete professionalism must be maintained at all times or the course is in danger of breaking down.
Hi Ronald,
I am a firm believer, you get from students what you expect. Standards should always be set at an achievable, yet high level.
Patricia
I agree with Craig as above. Setting student behavior expectations and performance standards right off can eliminate many future problems. I also throw in some genuine humor, the laughs thus easing first day student anxiety and building positive rapport.
The first day is when we set the boundaries in the classroom. I explain what is expected of them and what they should expect from me. I explain what they will learn and how they will achieve this. What is expected within the classroom environment as well as lab. I will let them know what we will be working on each day, and how they will be graded. Most of all on that first day, I will appear and act in a professional manner and with consistency to make them feel comfortable in the classroom and can achieve any grade they put their mind to achieve.
Hi Dee,
If anyone is out of dress code how do you handle the situtation?
Patricia
We stand at the door and greet our students and do a subtle dress code check while we are saying hello.
Hi Tracy,
There is nothing like a genuine smile. Students want to see their instructor smile. A smile can go a long way!
Patricia
I try to make sure that I have eye contact with everyone in the room. I also make sure to smile genuinely to let them know that it's my first day, too, and that we are all human beings.
Hi Michael,
Absolutely, a first impression is a lasting one. You never get the opportunity to make another first impression. Punch hard from the beginning!
Patricia
Hi Andres,
A lot is determined on the first day. An image is created whether it is positive or negative. Students tend to be very judgemental. All rules, policies, procedures, etc. must be set on Day 1. Day 1 is crucial!
Patricia
I agree. That first impression goes a long towards establishing a culture and community of learning, mutual respect, professionalism and order in any classroom. Young, old, professional or otherwise, a classrooms will ebb and flow with the strngth or weaknesses presented by the instructor immediately. It is never easy to make a second first impression; make that first one count.
Hi Andres,
Image is everything! Set the standards upfront, which is on Day 1. Let students know that you care, but you mean business.
Patricia
