This module helped me understand how important the first day of class is in establishing a positive and trusting environment. One key strategy is how we choose to interact with students from the start. Taking time to introduce ourselves—not just by sharing our professional background, but also a little about our personal lives—can make us more relatable and approachable.
I also learned that creating structured activities on the first day can help students get to know each other, which builds a sense of community that can benefit the entire course. These early efforts contribute to a classroom culture where students feel comfortable engaging, participating, and supporting one another.
Setting this tone early makes a significant difference in how students experience and connect with the course moving forward.
