Smiling, being positive, calling them by name, looking at them directly and listening.
Dan,
This is a great way to show students that you care and they are not just a number or a body in your class. To know their name when they enter the classroom on the first day is excellent. It makes a great first impression and allows students to make a connection the first day of class.
I make a point of attending orientation, as much as possible, and learn all new students names. Then when they come to class for the first time I can greet them by name and bring up something I learned about them at orientation. I've had students say that it makes them feel as if our school really cares about them. By the way, I used HABE in a lecture yesterday and it was a huge success!!
Smile, be friendly and let them know I am here to help.
Eric,
Great Post. Sometimes first impressions are made even before the first day of class. Students may know who you are and see your actions before they even have you in class.
I agree first impressions are made the first day of class sometimes at the door in the hall to welcome them in In my eyes first impressions can make or break the relationship or bonding process that becomes so important the first day of class taking the time to know them where their from and how they act can become so important aned set the tone for the class setting
Jeffrey,
Meeting them at the door or outside the class with a greeting reinforces the fact that you will be there to help. Great Job!
George,
You are correct in that you need to make a connection with students at some point. However, if you do not make a positive first impression, it will be more difficult to make that connection.
Timothy,
Great points! The enthusiasm is just as important as appearance.
I always meet the students outside of class and say hello and good morning. I am also very clear on what the class intails, and what is going to be expected of them. I also reassure them that any and all help is provided for them to succeed, and theres no such thing as a"stupid question".
Make them feel wanted, like they belong in your classroom. Be freindly, courteous and outgoing towards them. Even if this is not your style, or in your personality, a good first impression is crucial- particularly if you have a student that seems to be troubled and you need to make a connection with them at some point.
By arriving on-time, prepared, well dressed, and enthusiastic about the students, the school, and my subject matter!
Wayne,
Sometimes people think that first impressions have to occur when you actually meet someone, but that's not true. If a instructor is not in the classroom on time, an impression has been made. If the instructor is standing at the door to smile and greet the students and make them feel comfortable and wanted as you do, then a wonderful impression has been made. GREAT JOB!
I always try to smile and say good morning. I thing you have to make the students feel welcome and you’re glad to have them in class for the day
Ronald,
This is a great idea. It allows students to see that you are a similar other. Sometimes being 100% professional all the time is too much for our students and they can't relate to that. They need to see that we have have several mountians and valleys to overcome.
Wilfred,
This is a great way to make a good impression and to help students feel comfortable. The students who you help know they can always come to you and you will help.
Ronald,
Interaction with the class is very important, not only during class but during breaks as well. You can learn alot about students and help them even more by knowing more about them.
Philip,
A smile can go a long way and provide a comfortable (instead of intimidating) atmosphere.
The best way I've found to break the ice with first impressions is to open the conversation with my past experiences. This lets the students know that we have been where they are going. This give them the confidence they can ask any question that comes to there mind and they are assurured we can answer them correctly.
On the first day of each class I greet my students at the door with a smile and welcome them to my class. I alsolook out for students that appear lost so that I can direct them to there classes.
