The first day of class sets the tone for the rest of the course. To reduce students' anxiety and uncertainty, try to create a relaxed, open classroom environment conducive to inquiry and participation, and let students know what you will expect from them and what they can expect from you and the course.
1. Visit the classroom before the first meeting. 2. Build a sense of community in the classroom. 3. Address students' concerns. Set the tone for the rest of the course.
4. Greet students when they enter the classroom. 5. Start and finish class on time. Encourage questions, and give students the opportunity to talk.
6. Stay after class to answer questions, or invite students to walk with you back to your office.
7. Write the course name and number on the board.
8. Take attendance. Mention department course policies.
9. Explain the procedures for the course's sections.
10. Describe the relationship between the course and its sections and how sections will be run.
11. Review any prerequisites for the course.
12. Define your expectations for student participation.
13. Tell students about campus policies on academic honesty.
14. State your expectations, and let students know what you regard as cheating and impermissible collaboration.
15. Hand out and discuss the course syllabus.
16. Invite students to attend your office hours.
17. Review safety precautions.
18. Review emergency procedures.
19. Bring copies of the required texts to the first class meeting.
Introduce yourself to your class.
Ask students to fill out an introduction card.
Begin to learn student's names. Discuss the objectives of the course.
Ask students to list the goals they hope to achieve by taking the course.
Describe how you propose to spend class time.
Give your students ideas about how to study and prepare for class.
Give an assignment for the next class session.
Ask students to write their reactions to the first day.
