This is always a kind of hard for me, since I want to be true, at the same times, I want o be honest to all of them. Well, introduction is always not easy to talk about yourself, so I intent just to ask everyone to introduce themselves then after that, I introduced my self. And somehow it's always not easy to talk about yourself.
I am still working on this one, still trying to learn from you all.
I believe smiling, using their name, and welcoming them verbally goes a long way in that first impression.
I try to ask them a question in that first meeting (usually as to why they chose this field) in order to establish interest and caring.
One way you can make a better first impression with your students is to clarify learning objectives and your expectations. This is probably the most important objective. Clearly laying out expectations starts to orient students toward the kind of effort, learning, performance and classroom behaviors you expect from them, and it helps them use their time productively. It will also help those students who are shopping around in deciding whether to take your course or not.
Working in distance education, the first impression (although not physical) is extremely important. We strive to always make a good impression by 1) responding to students as soon as possible, 2) thanking them for contacting us, 3) answering their questions completely, 4) provide information on how the student can continue to communicate with the university, 5) always wish them a good/great day. Since we cannot see our students, we have to ensure that they get a good first impression through email and over the phone. Students appreciate being responded to immediately even if it is just a brief, "I received your email and will follow up by this afternoon."
I think it is important the first impression demonstrate professionalism and the ability be human and not standoffish. Eye contact and "real" and welcoming smile is very important
I know that when I am professionally dressed and prepared for the day ahead that I present a better image overall and it helps me personally with general attitude. Students notice, whether they mention it or not. I know that I tend toward immersing myself in my work at times which can easily be misinterpreted. I have tried to make a point of making eye contact and speaking when I cross paths with students and have found that my interaction with them overall has improved. I didn't have negative experiences previously, I just recognize more positive exchanges when I focus on making that first outreach a positive one.
First impressions are extremely important. They can mean the difference between a student eager to attend the class verse a student who might not come back to class.If you treat the students as adults and with respect, they will generally treat you with the same respect! It really works!
Ruth,
Thanks for this post. One thing I have found very effective is simply learning and using students' names. It makes a big difference.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Kevin,
I once read that teachers get to make a new "first impression" each class meeting. What are one or two things you do to get your classes off to a good start?
Jeffrey Schillinger
Susan,
Thanks for sharing this post. Many online teachers have trouble making the connection with their students. These tips should help our peers.
I think an effective way of doing this is to say hi with a smile, a warm hand shake and say welcome and I am really glad you are hear or I am looking forward to our classes together.
Wow heather what a great idea. Would love to get this started at our school.
Stand up straight, smile from the heart. Be ready willing and able to direct. Students sometimes feel lost and just want to let someone else take charge for a few moments.
Hi Allen,
I think thatthis is a great piece of advice that i will use in may classroom. I am usually right at the board on the first day of class, but waiting by the door to greet the students is a good tip.
I also think that making a good first impression can come from a professional appearance, as in the way you dress, but not being overly formal. Students tend to be a little less receptive of a professor who is wearing a very formal business suit during class. Keep it professional and personal, always smile, and command the room with a welcoming energy.
You can make a better first impression by smiling, standing tall, greet the student by their first name, and give a firm handshake as you look them in the eye. I beleive this is how you can make a better first impression.
Stephanie,
We have a chance to make a new "first impression" every time we are getting ready to start class.
Jeffrey Schillinger
On the first day of class, I stand at the door and greet each student as they come in and give each one of them a Smarties candy. I tell them they were smart to come to school today! I also in my beginning class, try to learn their names by the second class, sometimes I can do it in the very first class. I use their names when I call on them so it helps me learn the names and it gives them the idea that I care about them which I do!
see yourself through your students eyes, are you smiling, prepared, are you in a "good" mood? Is the material presented in an organized fashion. I haver a lsit on the board everyday of the objective for that day, they always know what to expect.
I always make sure on the first day of class I walk in with a big smile on my face and welcome everyone. I tell them how interesting the semester is going to be. I tell them a bit about myself and have them tell me about themselves so I can get to know them. This seems to open up a good rapport with them from the start. It seems to make them feel more comfortable.
Jaime,
Thanks for this post. That smaile probably should be on display every day you are with students.
Jeffrey Schillinger
