Building respect the first day?
What exercises or introduction could you do to earn more respect the first day of class?
Hi Eric,
I like your entire outlook. I agree 100%. We have to let our students know when they are wrong although they are the most important customers in the building.
Patricia
Credentials and experience are important, but I value confidence and appearance more. Dress professionally, be organized and on time and carry yourself confidently. The subject you know most about is yourself so speak clearly, concisley and make sure your first class is your best.
First impressions mean everything. Without even trying or talking an impression starts inside a students mind as they see you waiting to start the class. Be early, and start exuding that confidence from the get go.
One such exercise I promote is the "Open Door Policy". In other words, I inform my students the first day that "I am because they are". I promote servant leadership at all levels and I cut no corners in telling my students that they are the consumer/customer. However, I have informed them that contrary to popular belief in this situation, the customer isn't always right. Now, that doesn't go to say that me as the instructor is always right either. This approach has worked very well for me and has allowed me to have a much more stress-free environment.
As others have said, introducing yourself and your credentials/experience. Even though I've been doing this for 5 years I still go through it each class for those students who have not been in my classes in the past.
One mistake I made at first was overkill by giving my entire CV and after a while the students non-verbals were "Ok, we get it your an expert, you've done a lot and have lot's of experience lets move on" All they really need is the cliff notes version.
It is easy to cross the line from establishing your credibility to something that looks a lot like bragging.
Hi Donald,
When you introduce yourself make sure to include your credentials. Students need to know that they are learning from someone who is qualified.
Patricia
Introduce yourself and tell them how your experience it going to benefit them as students.
Hi Fran,
I always share my personal stories with students as they apply to my education that has me where I am today. I let them know that anything worth having is worth working hard to obtain it.
Patricia
Good idea let them know how you got to be where your at in life and your experiences.. and what you expect of them as students and learners of the same field.
Hi Joseph,
In your personal introduction let them know of your qualifications and also let them know how you manage your class. Make a strong presence when introducing yourself.
Patricia
