Meeting the Class for the First Time | Origin: ED101
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Effective Teaching Strategies --> Meeting the Class for the First Time
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
It is important to create a sense of one - on - one connection with each student and empower them to feel like successfully completing the course is within their reach.
Students need to feel that your teaching is valuable and that they will gain something by paying attention in class. You acheive that by caring and coming to class prepared.
Showing how you came into teaching and the living you have made from their same career path gives students that motivation to understand the content being taught in a course.
As a student it was important for me to feel comfortable with my classmates and instructor. I recalled that some instructors were kind while others ate their young. I vowed to never be that instructor and to always be kind to my students.
After I share a few things about myself, I really like going around the room and having students share their name, and whatever they want to share. This give students the opt out ~ some just aren't in the mood ~ and some will share quite a bit. It's unfortunate if there is no time to do something like this.
This model will be the ice breaker as far as getting to know the students and also getting everyone on the same page as we prepare for a progressive endeavor.
As an online instructor, posting a warm welcome message is critical to address the content as covered in this section. In my first live session, I discuss how online my online course is conducted and my expectations for students.
Being early, prepared and ready to greet your class with enthusiasm on Day One really sets the tone and establishes professionalism. Knowing their names, being approachable and enthusiastic about the subject matter helps keep that momentum throughout the class.
Make a good first impression! Have something fun planned as a "get to know you" or ice breaker.
Comment on Phyllis Lee's post: Great summarization!
During this course, I have learned more pearls of wisdom that will help with my first day as an instructor. It is important that I set the tone on the first day, as this will help with the anxiousness and nervousness that students may feel. I will be sure to arrive before time, greet my students by name, and learn something important about each one during class. Hopefully, this will be a great experience for them.
This model if followed correctly will make you more confident when dealing with your new classes. The students will be more relaxed and willing to express their thoughts on the subject matter. The model allows the class to gel as a group in synchronization
getting to know your students names and sharing something about you with them will help with both parties
It's always important to have the learning atmosphere that encourages students. Setting that up in the first class leads to their success.
This module reinforced how critical the first day of class truly is. It is not just about reviewing the syllabus—it is about establishing leadership, credibility, and community. The three M’s—modeling, managing, and motivating—provide a strong framework for accomplishing this.
Motivating students begins with building a learning community. Structured group activities, counting off into small groups, and guided introductions help students step outside their comfort zones in a positive way. These early interactions reduce anxiety and create peer connections that will support collaboration throughout the course. When students feel known by their instructor and connected to their classmates, engagement increases.
Overall, this material emphasized that the first day is foundational. By intentionally modeling professionalism, managing structure, and motivating connection, we create an environment where students feel supported, respected, and ready to learn. The investment made on day one pays dividends for the remainder of the course.
One thing that I have learned is that students' anxiety often decreases when they clearly understand the expectations and outcomes of a class. A well-structured syllabus that outlines objectives, assignments, and grading criteria creates transparency and builds confidence. When expectations are clear, students can focus more on learning and less on uncertainty.
Giving the goals and objectives for the course, but in the case of nursing, I want to show how my GED course will contribute to their degree and give them clear goals that support their role as a nurse.
Comment on Michael Daub's post: Photos is great idea that I will implement as well.
Give students an overview what they'll be learning, the value of it and how to be successful in the course. Let them start building a culture amongst other classmates and share a bit about themselves and myself as the instructor and my content expert background.
