Tracy,
This is a good approach to use throughout the term. T^ake a few minutes to let the students focus on themselves.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I always greet my students each morning with a smiling face. On the first day of class I introduce myself and tell them something about myself. I ask each student in the class to do the same.
I believe I can make a better impression by relating to the students more, making them laugh, talking about more real life scenarios they will face in school and in the medical field. Making class a learning environment as well as fun atmosphere.
First impressions are not always done by first look at times its done by word of mouth u have to give an impression they havn't heard
A positive greeting, including a smile, that makes the students feel welcome and allows them to see you are approachable and that you are excited to be in a class with them. One of our schools best practices is to have each instructor send a welcome to class email one week prior to the start of class that will help to excite students about the course.
Joanne,
Perhaps you can flip the order a bit. Your rules are not nearly as important as your students and your experiences.
Jeffrey Schillinger
On the first day I greet my students with a smile and a folder with everything they need for the class. I then go over everything from the rules to what I expct in the classroom. I have all my students introduce themselves and give a short reason why they took this class, it helps me understand them a little better. I then tell them a little about myself.
Kelsey,
The variety of retention strategies you describe here are tried and true strategies that work when executed well.
Jeffrey Schillinger
To me its about the end goal and providing applicaple learning from the start. I typically feel that if a studnet can apply that days lesson in life then I have been able to help them. While, this is by no means the only goal, just a small portion of it.
We offer contests, guest speakers and presentations throughout the term so the students can see the value in what they are doing from a "real" world aspect.
Kelsey,
I once had a boss who told me to remember that weget to make a new first impression at the start of each day. What are some ways you begin your classes that get students excited about being there?
Jeffrey Schillinger
We know you never get a second chance to make a first impression. On the very first day of class, there are few things I incorporate. Some fun activities to help all get to know each other. We set expectations and discuss as a class. Here is the part of the first impression, we disucss how they are all capable of doing well and that I am there for them. Letting the students know there is someone in their corner is a great tool in retaining them and for them to be successful in reaching their goals.
Be the first person to introduce myself with a smile, show tack and professionalism and implement fun in an relaxed setting all in 3 minutes of conversation.
Smiling. It helps the student relax, so much so on the first day of class. Also, introducing yourself the the student, shaking their hand and welcoming them to the school.
First impression is a lasting one people always say. Smile and greet all students with the respect that they deserve, try to learn their names and something about them. As instructors dress according to the policy and procedures, because they are watching and taking notes of everything that you do the first time they meet you. Let it be a warm welcome that leaves a positive impression.
Dawn,
Using names is a powerful way to connect with folks. There are many websites that provide "tricks" for learning names quickly. Check some out.
Jeffrey Schillinger
First impressions are made visually. So other than how you present yourself, eye contact with a smile; says quit a lot about a person.
I'm always in class early to make sure everything is prepared. I smile and say good morning to students as they come in, however I could use their names more often during the greeting.
What method I use is to meet them at the classroom door on the first day of class, smile and say a short greeting. I then spend approx. the first hour taking time to get to know them as iI also introduce myself.
AS a student, I think the first thing I am looking for is to know that the teacher cares if or not I pass the class. If she cares, I care. If i can tell it really doesnt matter to her and sne is just doing her job, I am concerned if I will get help if I need it. It also is not as important to pass, as the instructor doesnt care.
