First Day
I like to explain to my students exactly what i expect from them and what they can expect from me.
Ashley,
What a wonderful idea and you are right!~ Students don't like to ask these types of questions for fear of admitting they don't know. Kudos for being proactive.
Susan Backofen
As an adviser, I've found that students are sometimes afraid to ask what the expectations are on assignments, attendance, etc., for fear of looking stupid or unprepared. After realizing this, I made it a habit to head the issue off; the last thing we talk about after we complete orientation are expectations. [I've found that last sticks best] This encourages the students to continue the conversation with their own questions and ensures a higher level of clarity of what they need to be prepared to do.
What do you suggest is the appropriate attire to wear for the first day orientation.
I agree, our sylabus for the first day includes what we expect from our students, this is after the introduction I give that includes a little history of me and then I go around the room to ask them to introduce themself to me and tell me a little about their history and where they are from. Most of the students know each other at this point, but it can bring up other things that they might not know about each other. This is good because it makes them feel included and also might bring up something that we all have in common other than the subject of the training.
Gary--
Humor is always good...it makes the point in a way that isn't so offensive (as a rule). It let's your rebels know you noticed.
Susan
Yes expectations are necessary for sure. Clear and concise. I also try hard to build exitement for the course.
I always try to use humor at first to point out when some of the rebels are doing just the opposite of what they were asked on day 1. If that doesn't work, then a private 1 on 1 discussion may be needed.
Nicol--
Sounds like you have a great strategy for starting your classes in a way that engages students. Kudos!
Susan
I usually create an outline on the first day of topics that include course expectations ( for me the instructor, and second the student),syllabus, and course addendum. I also create a activity for a group setting to discuss interest, hobbies, and experiences pertaining to the subject matter. This is a good way to start building a rapport with students.
its important to set the ground rules so that everyone is on the same page and it keeps the class on task. And you may have to mention it a couple of times for those who want to be rebels.
On the first day, I introduce myself to the class and tell a little bit about my background and interests . This helps the students get to know me and make them feel more comfortable. I then let them introduce themselves so they can get to know each other. This makes a more comfortable and nonthreatening learning environment. After that, I begin talking about the expectations and what the course is about.
I also include class syllabis that explains what you will learn in the class as well as whats expected. J.P.
What we expect from them, but also what they should expect from us
Welcoming, setting clear expectations, and letting the students know where to find help- from me and from the school are all part of my first day activities.
On the first day, students want to know what is expected in all aspects of the class. They will feel more comfortable with the material when expectations are clear.
