This module has helpful in learning techniques for making students feel comfortable and valued, such as greeting them warmly, using positive body language, and encouraging participation.
Introduction,organization and getting to know your students is key to success.
Always being prepared for the first day helps the students feel at ease
I liked that the module listed out what we want our students to have at the end of their first class: 1) A sense of where they're going and how they'll get there; 2) A feeling that the other members of the class are not strangers; 3) An awareness that you care about their learning; 4) An expectation that the course will be valuable and enjoyable.
Creating community in your classroom is important.
Establish yourself as personable, approachable, and qualified.
Be a "human being" aka personable. Also, learning student names pays dividends...I learned this a while back and can definitely attest to its benefit.
Getting to know the students is just as important as the students getting to know each other.
It is good to get to know something about your students, and tell them a little bit about yourself.
I like the idea of standing at the doorway at the beginning of class and welcoming the students in. Study guides will help provide students a roadmap of what will be covered. Some "getting to know you" time will help to ease anxiety and aid students in getting familiar with one another.
Make the students feel comfortable by introducing yourself but also giving just some small background information about yourself.
It's important to introduce yourself and tell your students about your background in the field but also think about information that might make you relatable to them so they not only see you as an instructor but also a person.
The first day will set the tone for the term. Allowing students to feel comfortable will help their learning as they progress. Make sure to learn the names and correct nicknames the student prefers to be called.
I would like to explain to them my diverse background of different careers. This may help some students relate or open up to me in the future.
The first day of class needs to be interactive. Get to know students and allow them to get to know each other. Facilitate those opportuntities for them to connect.
Sharing information about yourself is just as important as the students sharing information about themselves. Opening the floor to the feeling of being known by name generates teacher-student respect.
Set the tone early, that will dictate and predicate how the rest of the classes go.
Effective Teaching Strategies: Meeting the Class for the First Time
Meeting a class for the first time sets the tone for the entire course. What I’ve learned is that the initial interaction is crucial in establishing rapport, setting expectations, and creating a positive learning environment. First impressions can shape the way students perceive both the course and the instructor. Introducing yourself in a way that reflects your passion for the subject and your commitment to student success helps build trust and encourages engagement from the very beginning.
To apply this, I plan to start each course by clearly communicating course goals, expectations, and grading policies, while emphasizing the resources available for student support. I will also engage students in an introductory activity to learn more about their backgrounds, interests, and concerns, fostering a sense of community. Encouraging an open dialogue from the start will allow students to feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their needs. Establishing a welcoming and inclusive environment is key to helping students feel invested in the course and confident in their ability to succeed.
I like the recommendation of a brief introduction but letting the students know something personal so they can relate as a human. I am also terrible with names but allowing the opportunity for students to say their name and something about them can definitely help, especially in a smaller setting.
Introductions are important. It provides comfort to the students, and it will provide a small background for the instructor.
