New Students
Many students who are new to a program or school are afraid of being judged, especially by veteran students or teachers who might shoot them down. I like to welcome them in and have a first day writing assignment where we all discuss what we want out of our education. Most students, regardless of how far they are along say the same thing. This is the great equalizer.
I agree that working in small groups throughout the classroom helps to accomplish a team enviornment and that I believe is key. Once they feel like they are part of a team and working together to achieve a goal, even if they are different, they will overcome the nervousness naturally.
i teach an intro class so they are very nervous to begin with. I always have them explain who they are and why they chose this class. Then break them into groups for a group icebreaker
