In the workshop on classroom management that I will be teaching this week at St Petersburg College, we will talk about setting expectations and building credibility on the first day of class. Some of the tips are:
- Think about the first impression your students are receiving. Dress to show your respect for them (you would dress professionally for a job interview, wouldn't you?) Students should not think that you are just another student when you walk in; your clothing and demeanor should project leadership.
- Give some thought as to how you will introduce yourself. Using a title (Professor or Dr. or even Mr. or Mrs.) will establish that you are in charge. It is easier to be a little more formal and strict at the beginning of the semester and then loosen up than it is to be casual at first and then decide to be strict.
- Check out the classroom layout before class and make sure you know how to work the equipment in the room. Don't fuss with your papers, the projector, or computer when you get there. The students need to think you are organized.
- Tell your students why you went into teaching and show your enthusiasm for your course content. If you're not excited about the subject, your students won't be either.
- Share your credentials and work experiences with the students. Don't assume that just because the university hired you that the students will automatically respect you or think they can learn from you.
- Do something interesting to illustrate what it is you want them to be doing throughout the semester...if you plan to use cases, do a short one the first day. If you want them to work in teams, put them into groups and give them something to work on in class.
- Keep your students the entire first class to show that the class time is important and that they will be getting their money's worth.
- Give an assignment the first day that is due the second day of class. It could be a reading, homework problems, something to research on the internet. Build in some sort of accountability by giving a quiz or taking up the assignment to show the students you think it important for them to do the work.
Keep in mind that your students are trying to figure out what kind of teacher you are...what are your class expectations, do you have a sense of humor, do you care about their learning? By spending some time thinking about the message you want to communicate, you’re well on the way to managing your classroom!
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