Proper planning and preparation are key. Make sure to show up to class before the students arrive to ensure an inviting and well organized environment. Say hello to each student arriving to class with their first name, it makes the student feel welcomed, and creates a good start to the class.
creating a course syllabus that will cover lectures, projects, homework, reviews/tests, will better help the student prepare and manage their time in my class
Coming prepared is extremely important. Show students you care by being profesional and prompt.
I've learned the planning and prep of the course is essential to the learning of students, and creates their first impressions.
Even if we are experts in the material we are teaching, preparing will allow the best outcomes not only for your students but also to yourself as a new instructor.
I've learned that preparation is key. When you are prepared your students know it, it shows.
Making an effort to learn your student's names and arrive early is important to set the tone of the class for the day.
I have never taught a lecture without a syllabus, though in the advent of digital learning I think the focus is more on the how and what of technology, rather than the older parts of the syllabus like etiquette, attendance expectations, and grading policy. While I go over that, its more abbreviated due to time constraints and all the supplemental online book work and assessments and such that need to be covered.
This is a good module for overall preparation of a course for traditional university setting. As an online instructor teaching an already designed course with a pre-generated syllabus. this section was not as relevant.
I learned that I need to walk around my classroom to consider the environment from a student's perspective, the presence or absence of necessary equipment or tools, and the presence of potential distractions.
Preparing is extremely important for your curriculum to go smoothly and as planned.
Always be the first one to class, it will give you more time to set up, help maintain a professional appearance and interact with your students. Taking the time to review the lesson plans and create detailed check lists helps keep the flow of information in class, while allowing for more student interaction.
Preparation is key and keep a quick guide for the lesson to make sure you have hit all important topics.
Comment on Heidi STREETMAN's post: Wholeheartedly agree Heidi. I find it very difficult to connect with student with synchronous on-line classes. Would like to learn if there are any proven strategies for this
Be organized before class with a very structured syllabus, making sure the room is ready and you, yourself are organized and prepared for teaching the class content
Preparing for your classes is critical especially if it is a new class. The lesson as well as to how you are going to deliver it is part of the planning. You need to use a check list so as to not leave out any of your planned activities. Get to know your students before the class begins as much as possible
make it an effort to be early and greet your students. maybe even chat a few up to see how they are doing in class and understanding everything okay
The syllabus is already done for this course. I will make sure that students understand it. It is a roadmap, and it is a kind of contract between the instructor and the students.
A few pearls of wisdom that I have learned are to plan early, be on time, and inform your students of your expectations and the school's expectations. Have your notepad handy to keep track of your daily plans with your checklist. Be sure you are familiar with the information you are teaching and where the students can find the proper resources. Be sure that if supplemental material is used, it's approved by the institution. Speak with your students about setting goals during your first meeting and gain an understanding of what they expect from you as an instructor. Enjoy your first class and don't be afraid to ask questions.
This module reinforced something I strongly believe in—preparation sets the tone for everything that follows. Whether you are a brand-new instructor or a seasoned professional, those first-class nerves are real. However, early and intentional planning shifts the focus away from anxiety and toward student engagement and instructional quality.
One key takeaway for me is the power of a checklist. A simple, well-prepared checklist can eliminate unnecessary stress and prevent last-minute scrambling. Ensuring lesson plans are finalized, lab supplies are staged, equipment is ready, and materials are accessible allows the instructor to greet students confidently and start on time. When instructors appear organized and composed, students immediately sense structure and professionalism. That first impression matters.
