Acknowledge students positively!
Acknowledge students positively
I have found that a student will respond as he is acknowledged. If the instructor has a positive attitude and acknowledges the student pleasantly at all time, in the hall ways or at the door, and even away form the campus. The word gets out and students come in to the class with the expectation that this is going to be a pleasant experience, and they will like the instructor before they have formally met. It is contagious try saying good morning or hello to every one you pass, it will come back around
Great advice. This seems to lighten the moment so to speak. Trying to stay positive is an axcellent role model. Students should open up a little quicker.
I like this attitude toward establishing a positive atmosphere in the class. Starting off on a good footing could be a great aid to the classroom.
Sometimes I think that it becomes meaningless when I constantly tell my students they are doing a good job, day in and day out, but now I realize that it has set a positive tone for the entire course.
Yes, as humans, we do end up with preconceived notions of people and experiences based on the opinions of others. this is essential to recognize as i have had to break this pattern as well.
one thing i try to do is use this as a learning example with my students, meaning i tell them that impressions are formed very quickly so always demonstrate a high level of proffesionalism as it takes a long time to change an opinion.
I also emphasize most outcomes occur directly from the attitude that is brought into the project.
if you think something is not going to go well it wont, if you think something will be a drag, it will be..
This is very true. I have found that the students share information among themselfs about the instructors they have had, good or bad. So if you create a good reputation with the students alot of them will come into your class with a positive attitude.