It is important to establish a rapport with students, the first day; it definitely sets the tone for the course. Being clear about expectations and the plan for learning is calming to the students as they plan for success. I like the priority on connecting students with each other through purposeful activities. Once they feel like they belong, students will be more successful and more at ease in class. A nice balance of clearly stated and written expectations with boundaries along side relationship building and personal connection is the key to a productive and successful class dynamic.
