teaching skills
I now see how important the first class beginning
and onset of the material presentation is. Much depends on the instructor and the student roles upon meeting for the first time.
I agree and think I have been omitting some important factors in my first class meeting. Usually I'm bogged down in getting through the obligatory paperwork. I'll pay more attention to class interaction in the future.
Interaction with students at the outset certainly shows that you have an interest in their success.
Come into to the class ready for anything. Let them know that the instructor is in charge. Don't argue with recalcitrant students; let the managers handle them. Continue to teach.
Right, it's a critical moment. I've found that the tone you set on the first day does affect the class in the future. I really like the emphasis on setting clear expectations, and motivating students; if students feel that it's fair, within their reach and maybe even fun, classes tend to go smoothly from the start.
