I don't believe you should feel the need to hide this. The school hired you as the subject matter expert, so walk in feeling confident! I'm a new hire myself, so I can relate to the nervousness, but I don't think you should be ashamed of being new. Every great instructor needs to start somewhere.
Hi Abigail,
You are giving good advice. All new instructors need to keep in mind they were hired because they have experience and expertise in their career field. With dedication and effort it won't be long before the subject matter specialist (SMI) becomes an instructional delivery specialist (IDS).
Gary
I'm glad that there are so many others willing to voice how nervous they were about teaching their first class. I'm concerned about several things - how nervous I might be my first day and the students will be able to see that, that my course outline might be too ambitious, that ultimately I may not be a good educator, etc. I know that preparation is important, but it may be one of the most important things in starting off on the right foot!
Hi Tricia,
Welcome to the teaching profession. I wish you much success and happiness as you impact the lives of your students.
As a new instructor you need to be over prepared by about three times. You will be amazed at how quickly you can use up lecture material when you first start teaching.
When you meet the class for the first time spend some time with introductions and an ice breaker or two. This will take some time while you are gaining control of your nerves and finding out that you can enjoy your students as you get to know them. Ice breakers are light and almost always involve laughter and an easy pace. So this relaxes everyone.
Then you can introduce the syllabus, your course requirements, polices and expectations and the students will be ready to receive such information. Once that is completed you can start your lecture, demonstration, whatever you want to do next. You will surprised at at quickly you find your pace and flow within the class.
Don't worry about your course outline being too ambitious as it is your guide so you can modify it as you need without feeling bad about doing it.
You are going to do great that first day and each day after that and you are going to be a great instructor if you strive improvement each time you meet a class and continue to grow in your professional development.
Gary
