The module effectively addressed how the class environment directly affects the learning abilities of the students. Perhaps the most important lesson in it involves putting the students at ease with the instructor and the learning goals of any given course. That is something that all instructors need to take into consideration.
This module was directed towards an effective approach that will engage, encourage, and build student confidence to enhance the learning process.
What I took from this module is that Ice Breakers for students can help create a more comfortable and engaging environment. It's good to encourage students to share their aspirations and goals.
In this module I learned that it is important for you to break the ice with students and talk about your experiences so that they can feel comfortable doing so as well.
Greet students as they enter the room and make note of how their dynamics are in the room.
When starting a new term/class it is important on the first day to establish what is expected of the students during the entirety of the term, from assignments to behavior. It is also important to explain my role and what is expected of myself as the instructor. Let them get to know me and me to know them.
Break the ice, engage in activities that will help the students get to know each other and get to know the instructor.
Introduce yourself class, talk about your experience in the field, brief the class on what is going to be covered.
Making a good impression by introducing yourself.
sharing information and personal experience in the field can help establish your position as the classroom leader. You cab share real life scenarios they may run into one day down the road
Tell the students a little about yourself, and offer the same to them to help to ease nervousness on the first day. Learning names can be tricky, so a seating chart can be helpful- also, using the students name and pronouncing it correctly will help build trust and a better relationship between you and the student.
I learned that the first day of class is very important; implementing the strategies presented in the module sets the tone for the course, expectations for the course, and establishes community among students. Learning students' names is vitally important to providing them with a certain level of comfort and belonging. Additionally, sharing details about yourself, career, and personal learning experiences, helps students foster their own self-efficacy. Reviewing the course syllabus, communicating course expectations, and helping students' see the value of their learning experiences helps with student acquisition of knowledge and course retention.
One of the biggest takeaways I gathered from this topic is how important it is to be intentional in setting the tone from day one. Several classmates highlighted strategies like greeting students at the door (Michael Cano), using name tents (Kimberly Phan), and building a sense of belonging (Laraysha Harmon, Justice Osei-Tutu). These might seem like small gestures, but they play a big role in creating a welcoming and productive classroom environment.
I especially connected with the idea that the first class is more than just an overview—it’s a chance to establish mutual respect, structure, and expectations (Rangitahi Haupapa, Kristin Minnick). As an instructor, I plan to bring a warm but professional presence, share a little about my own path (like John Mediodia suggested), and encourage students to introduce themselves in ways that connect to their goals.
In practice, I’ll apply what I’ve learned by:
Greeting students personally as they arrive
Using name tents or short introductions to help remember names
Walking students through a clear, flexible syllabus
Sharing a bit of my own journey to build rapport
Establishing classroom norms collaboratively
One comment that really stuck with me was from Kaitlin Lory, quoting a teacher who said, “I don’t want to know what you learned the night before—I want to know what came to you during our discussions.” That reminded me that active learning is the goal. I’ll be mindful to create space for in-the-moment insights, not just content delivery.
This discussion has given me both practical tools and a renewed sense of confidence for starting strong.
A good way for teachers and students to learn each other's names is to display name tents on desks. A good alternative to traditional ice breakers is for teachers to introduce the students instead.
I gathered that you want to set the tone and pace of the class quickly. Make sure the class is not nervous about how there new instructor will be set a calm tone that easy to soak up.
Meeting the students day one
-I would meet them at the door, hand shake and warm greetings. I'd like to ask the student to give a little info about themselves and where they see themselves after receiving their license.
-Overview of what is to be learned or understood by the end of the week
-outline the day with chapters or or projects
-Ask if there are any questions before we begin.
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I appreciate the points about remembering names, sometimes has been a weakness of mine with large classes and multiple schools starting at the same time. Also hearing that it is normal to feel a little anxiety before the first class is something i needed to hear, I didn't realize it was shared amongst all of us.
Having a checklist of points to cover is helpful for two reasons: it ensures you cover everything, and if you don't finish, you can easily pick up where you left off in the next class. This flexibility means you won't have to rush through items at the end if an activity takes longer than expected.
The introduction to the class sets the stage for the for what is to come. There is a lot of information that needs to be sent and received at this point and should be well planned out. Being prepared will make this process less stressful, sharing your background and experience in the field lets them know what you have accomplished. Also, explain the road it took to get there, let them know you started exactly where the are now.
Introduce yourself to your students with confidence and professionalism. Welcome the students into your class and provide them with a sense of of belonging, allowing them to get to know each other and you. This can help break down any barriers and help them understand what they will learn and accomplish in your class. Your syllabus will be their guide and they will know what to expect and the timelines they will have to start and complete their work. This will encourage them to become proactive learners and doers. This can help guide them through their education and into their career with self-confidence
