Class Management-The "First day is the only day" by Benjamin Shelton
The first day of class is really the only day. By this I mean as instructors we must make our best first impression on the first day of class. That means we must be dressed professionally, act professionally, and be organized. Moreover, we must set the ground rules on how the course will be taught, requirements and student expectations. These things done effectively on the first day of class, set the tone for a successful quarter or semester.
What other first day suggestions should be made?
Benjamin Shelton
Hi Betty,
The first day is vitally important. You miss the golden opportunity as an instructor if everything is not shared on Day 1.
Patricia
I agree the first day is very important it sets the stage for rest of the course.
Hi Steven,
You are right! Get started off on the right foot on Day 1. Students need structure, and they really want it.
Patricia
In addition to the things you have listed, I make sure to incorporate/use essentially all of the structural and procedural practices I am planning to use during the quarter. For many reasons it is relatively easy to establish these things on the first day and then continue from there. Much more difficult to introduce new procedures, expectations etc. after the first session has passed.
Definately the first day is only one day but it is also the day of first impressions and it appears to me it sets a standard for what is to come. What is to be expected in the class from both the instructor and the instuction.
Hi Amy,
Yes they are more comfortable knowing exactly what is expected and required of them up front.
Patricia
I think that when you discuss all of the policy's on that first day, students know what to expect and they are more comfortable knowing what will come.
some of the strategies I like to use.
1) Set clear expectations for student participation in discussion sessions - Initially, at the beginning of a course, I like to make sure every student is aware of the discussion requirements and expectations. Letting students know of expectations early, allows them to organize and plan ahead so that they can get online and fully participate.
2) Break the ice with introductions and games – It is also important to show students that the online environment is safe and encourage students to feel comfortable discussing topics with one another. One good strategy which I’ve developed over the years is to make the traditional introduction more interesting with a game where each person who posts has to find one thing in common with the person who posted before them.
I was never one to send too much time creating a relationship with students but recently our institution has been stressing the importance of the first day. Our focus has been on establishing your expectations and finding out what the expectations of the student are. This last part involves a 3x5 card with address, phone etc. and "please tell me one thing you would like me to know about you". All this helps to set up the atmosphere for the remaining classes. I now see how important this is instead of just jumping right into course material because it helps with building a repore. That foundation will last for the entire time they are in school and will help them stay in school.
Hi Stephanie,
Whenever you can make the lesson applicable to practical experience, students really seem to get it and be more relaxed about receiving it.
Patricia
Hi Ben,
On the first day of class, I discuss the students' past experiences with class material I am about to teach them. Several students have math anxiety when come into my classroom. I use the first day to allow the students to express their anxiety. To alleviate their anxiety, I discuss with a "Math Bill of Rights". When they recite this bill, they feel more comfortable about facing the course material.
It is important to alleviate the students' anxiety about course material by relating it to their everyday experiences/activities.
Hi James,
Yor are right, and a first impression is a lasting one. All rules, policies, and procedures should be fully discussed on Day 1.
Patricia
The first day is extremely important because first impressions of the student towards the instructor and vice-versa, essentially sets the tone for any future interaction between them. Clear communication and respect must be established at that time, if it is to exist,and each party will gauge the importance of the course on this. "You don't get a second chance to make a first impression."
Hi Benjamin,
Walk in on Day 1 with a strong presence, yet maintain a level of friendliness. Share with your students on the first day your experience/credentials in the field. Let them know you have their best interest at heart.
Patricia
