Meeting the Class for the First Time | Origin: ED101
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Effective Teaching Strategies --> Meeting the Class for the First Time
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I learned that the first class meeting is important for setting the tone for the entire course. It is a good opportunity to introduce myself, explain the course expectations clearly, and begin building a comfortable and respectful relationship with students.
I learned of the importance of setting expectations for the course as well as getting to know about the students to ease tensions of the first day.
Introducing oneself matters because others can learn more about you and connect in one way or another. This connection can create a cohesive group.
Getting to know your students and having your students getting to know a little bit about you helps grow a more personal connection with them and helps ease nerves.
I thought the video on having the students discuss what they learned in class that day based on their preparation the night before was very helpful.
I learned that it is important to establish expectations on the first day of class so students are aware of them are able to follow them, but I also learned it is important to establish a very calm and inviting environment so students are more comfortable which will in turn help engagement in class that will help with learning.
I have learned the following;
Present the course objectives, syllabus, learn about the students, and introduce your style. Demonstrate you care about their success, and offer your support
This module reinforced the importance of creating a welcoming and engaging environment from the very first class meeting. I learned that clear communication, introductions, expectations, and building rapport with students can help establish trust and encourage participation. I plan to apply these strategies by making students feel comfortable, explaining course expectations clearly, and creating an inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and encouraged to succeed.
I learned some important information in this course including:
- The importance of creating a safe, fun and relaxing environment.
- Establishing a supportive environment conducive to learning and promoting student success.
Comment on Monica Vallier 's post: Agree, this gives a sense that I am valued as a student.
When I start a class, I always do an icebreaker in which each student receives a colored sticky note. After presenting myself, I have them group by color, and in 5 minutes they present themselves, including their name, one thing they like, and one thing they do not like. For the last class, I also added why they chose the profession they are in.
I learned about the importance of creating my own comfortable environment in my classroom to help greet students and stay engaged
I introduce myself my years of experience. Ask students about their self, career goals, anything they would like to share. this will " break the ice' and help them become comfortable.
It is important to connect with students. Finding common ground shows them we are human just like them. Once the initial "newness" wears off and they feel a small connection with instructors and other students the learning environment becomes a safe space to learn, grow and make mistakes that can be learned from.
When meeting students for the first time, greeting them at the door is a good ice breaker. Introduce yourself and get to know the students. Have them get in to smaller groups to get to know each other. After attendance and learning their names, go over syllabus and make sure they know course objectives and class expectations.
When instructors take time to introduce themselves and share a brief professional and personal background, it helps students feel more comfortable and connected.
I appreciate the encouragement to introduce and get to know the students. I'll be joining cohorts in the middle of their education and this could help.
Having a fun and healthy way to break the ice for the first class helps you set the pace and environment for the semester to come. Students should feel welcomed, heard, and that being in class matters. You can do this by appearance, positivity, and helping students get to know each other so they can encourage each other to work hard and study together.
