Being a Part of the Learning Group
It is important on day 1 of the class to make each student feel as if their participation through discussions, ideas, and opinions really matter to you as the instructor and to the rest of the class. Being a vital part of the group definitely encourages participation!
Justice,
Making those personal connections helps to build a sense of community in the learners and between the instructor and students
Herbert Brown III
I also do that Cathleen, if the student mentions something in their bio that I can relate to on a personal level I will share a bit about myself as well. For instance, if someone mentions they are a die hard Green Bay Packers fan, I will say something about being a Bears fan since they are rivals. Just something that gives us a different connect point.
I agree that is important to my students. I try to not only point out the good points they make, but also to share information about myself. That way they can relate to me a little better.