It is important to learn names and pronunciation in order to set a good class tone.
Open up with an introductory of yourself and then meet each student. Explain class expectations, go over content and grading criteria and allow students to express their thoughts.
The first class should be structured as a "ice breaker" and information session to set the tone, pace and structure of the course as well as absolute defining of expectations.
Get to know your students, and make them feel welcomed and understood. They need to be able to trust their future with me.
I learned some great techniques to get to know your students at the beginning of the course.
Beginning day of a class I usually have quite a "to do" list. I appreciated the advice to not rush at the end to finish the list, but to carry on with the list the next time class meets.
I appreciate the emphasis on how the getting to know each other will enhance the class.
I don't feel like building a rapport with our students is that difficult. They really just need to know that you are there because you love what you are doing and that they are truly the central focus of why you are an instructor. We will all have our faults but as long as you can check most of the boxes that were discussed, the students will trust you and this will elevate their ability to learn in your classroom.
I need to know, how to start, and how to finish first class, (as it is a First time for me). Get ready for an additional tasks, like, creation a flash cards for students to introduce themselves. Be ready to give students a picture on how they will see themselves in the working environment, the knowledge, expertise, ....so, it is their future, that will motivate them..
Be cheerful and not so intimidating
I liked the ideas for ice-breaking activities. Having students put their names on a index car along with personal information and then having a little group discussion about it.
Great ideas for the first day meeting. Start with a meet and greet, Then, instructor introduction. I like to show a PPT of my animals, family, and some of my vacations sites. I love playing a getting to know you game with the students.
The first class period is an important time to build community and confidence.
No matter how you feel it went, it probably went better than you think, and with this hope you are now ready to prepare for the next class.
Get the students to know about you and know that you are capable in teaching the material and class. And then having the other students get to know each other.
This was helpful for me to remember to put myself in the students' shoes and think about exactly what I would want to walk away with on day 1 of class. I will be making sure I hit all of those things day 1 (They know where we're going & how we'll get there, they know their peers, they know I care about their learning, and they think the course will be valuable and enjoyable).
Sharing something about yourself helps break down the barrier between yourself and the students which facilitates a better learning enviornment.
Create an outline for the first meeting to be sure you cover pertinent items.
Introduction is imperative. In addition having activities to test their knowledge and getting to know them and each other
If I do not cover everything on my list on the first day be sure to go over requirements, syllabus, and emergency procedures. On the next class session, start where I stopped on the check off list.
