The first day of the semester is an important day for the faculty and students. It marks the beginning of a new term for students to continue their path to achieving the goals they set out to accomplish. Therefore, the first day (or first few days) of class requires careful preparation. Here are some tips to consider as we begin the new semester:
When introducing yourself (in person, via video, sharing a welcome document), share your passion for your subject with your students. Let students know why you think the knowledge you and your class offer is valuable.
Plan for success. "What you do and do not do the first day of class will affect your students' and even your own expectations and behavior for the rest of the term. So think ahead of time about the expectations and behaviors you want to establish in your classroom. Layout these expectations, and lead the kind of class activities that model the level of student engagement you have in mind for the rest of the course" (Nilson, 2010, p. 45).
- Be prepared. If you are teaching in a specific classroom, arrive early to organize and set up any technical equipment.
- Provide opportunities for students to interact, whether face-to-face or online. Options include:
- Use an icebreaker.
- Plan a syllabus activity that enables students to engage with other students and you actively.
- Create a student online introduction or "meet and greet" discussion in your Blackboard shell.
Reference
Nilson, L. B. (2010). Teaching at its best: A research-based resource for college instructors (3rd ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
