I usually teach an Introduction to Automotive Technology class. The first day is usually kind of mixed with students that think they know everything already and students that have the look of "what did I get myself into" on their face. I am usually very thorough in my explanation and give longer then normal breaks so that the unsure students will ask questions. If they don't, then I still try and joke around with them to get the to feel more comfortable and eventually ask questions. It has seemed to help thus far and the self doubters usually end up… >>>

The instructor will make sure that he build positive rapport with all his/her students. He/she will make sure that the names are learnt, something about their background, as well as their ages if possible. The ages can be learned through genuinely sharing through the breaking ice moment on the first day of class. What I usually do on the first day is to have an ICE BREAKER activity: I would have the student give their names, age and what town they are from and one FUN FACT about themselves. Through this activity I get some interaction going on; and this… >>>

I believe the first day of class is the most important day in terms of setting the tone. As this course mentions, the importance of greeting the students, giving an intro of yourself and allowing for introductions of who they are seems to break the ice. I also have found giving students an intro of what they will be learning throughout my term and how it will be applied in their chosen career field on the first day of class gives my lectures meaning and importance. The students mentality changes from this being a required course for them to finish… >>>