I am the new one.
Both classes I will be teaching this semester have been together for a year now and had the same instructor the whole time. I am the "new teacher". Any tips for me? I am afraid I will be eyed with suspicion and they might try to "get one over on me".
Hi Kara,
Cohort groups can be a challenge. The key will be to start the class off with a new activity that will show the students that their education is moving to a new level as a result of you being their instructor.
Yes, there will be inside jokes and group history that they will rely on but by creating new experiences for them this history will soon lose its' value and they will shift to their new class and instructor.
Be yourself and don't worry about what they have done in the past but what they will be doing in the future. This will facilitate them creating a new identity for themselves individually and as a group.
Gary
Hi Kara,
I have one of these classes too and am a new instructor as well. I did what came naturally and made sure to move and speak calmly (nerves can make for mistakes in speaking). I heard later that day how I had "kept the line" with one student who is known to take over and be loud and at times unprofessional. I did what came naturally in directly addressing him by name, telling him was I expected (versus asking if he would please....), just as I would as a supervisor in the workplace.
The same expectations employers have in the workplace are the foundation we can use in the classroom setting: professionalism, respect, attention, timeliness, etc.
I think the key words are to "be yourself"; you will be setting up honesty and truth with your students; and, showing them that you are human and EXCITED about the work ahead. GOOD LUCK! Claudia K.
