arnisa wilson

Meeting people where they are sometimes is key to being able to reach them in lecture. How you learned when you were in school might not work for the individuals sitting in front of you today. I have learned to try and humble myself and understand that we all have to start somewhere. This is just the beginning for them. Everyone learns differently.

Just like if you are hosting a party work them room before the start of the class. Get to know your audience a little bit and be present in the moment with your class. If you are unsure, you never want to embarrass yourself or the student, learn to pronounce names you are unsure of. 

Be clear in syllabus about objectives and materials that will be covered, be prepared to answer questions that may arise. Understand no question is a dumb question even it the answer is in the written materials.

I was always taught that first impressions are lasting impressions. I agree that being able to reach students is very important to developing trust within the classroom setting. Still remembering being a student myself, how can you believe what your instructor is telling you is correct if you do not trust them. There is also nothing wrong with being supportive of your students, as adults and people they go through things just the same as me on a daily basis.