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Teaching for the first time can be a scary experience. But successful instructors tap that anxiety; their nervous energy makes them dynamic teachers. The following hints may help you to get through that first day of class. Take a deep breath and . . .
Check Out the Classroom. Locate
the classroom. When the classroom is empty, spend a few minutes "practicing."
Get a sense of how loud you will have to speak, where the chalkboards are
and what media equipment is available. If you are teaching a laboratory
recitation, check out the storeroom so that you know where supplies are
stowed and become acquainted with the lab’s safety procedures and equipment.
Familiarize Yourself with the Course Syllabus. Whether teaching a recitation,
a lab or your own class, the first day is often dedicated to explaining
the course goals and assignments. Anticipate questions and rehearse your
answers. Are the books available in the library or the bookstore? Who does
the grading? Are final grade and course assignments extensions granted?
How long is the second essay? Be prepared to explain and supplement the
syllabus.
Meet with the Boss. If you are a teaching assistant, meet with the
course instructor. Ask about the objectives for the course, the grading
policy, and what your responsibilities will be. If any parts of the syllabus
were unclear, be sure to ask about them.
Gather Together Your Materials. Assemble any notes, copies of the syllabus,
samples of the textbooks the students will have to buy, and index cards
to ask students to record information about themselves
Observe a Class. If possible, observe an experienced teaching assistant
or graduate instructor teach a class.
Set Your Office Hours. Teaching Assistants at the University of Pittsburgh
are expected to hold office
hours for at least two hours a week. Choose times that are convenient
for both you and your students. Often, holding office hours on two different
days will make it easier for students to meet with you.
Arrive Early. Arrive ten minutes before class and chat with your students.
This can relieve some of the initial stress.
Just the Facts. Put vital facts on the board: your name, the course
number and section, your office hours, telephone number (department or
home) and your e-mail address.
Introduce Yourself. Tell your students your name, how you like to be
addressed, what your office hours are, and how they can get in contact
with you. If you are enthusiastic about the course, your students will
be too.
Introduce the Course. The purpose of the first class session is to
introduce the course to your students. Explain your goals for the semester.
Show them the textbooks and explain where they should get the material
they need for the class (bookstore,
library
reserve, reading
packet, web page). Be explicit about what assignments must be completed
for the course, how grades are accessed, and who does the grading. Explain
your policies regarding attendance and late assignments. Remember, if you
are a teaching assistant, you should be prepared to outline the policies
for both the course and your lab or recitation as presented in the syllabus.
Student Information. Many instructors ask their students to fill out
3 x 5 inch index cards with their name, student ID number, e-mail address
and telephone number. It’s helpful to ask for a current and home address,
a major, the reason they decided to take the course, and what they expect
to learn from the course. You might also ask students to list any special
needs they have: learning disabilities, an athletic schedule that might
interfere with class attendance, or fear of speaking in public. The information
on the index card will make it easy for you to set up a grade book or to
contact students who are having problems. In general, it can provide information
that will make you a better instructor.
Icebreakers. Some instructors like to do an "icebreaker" during their
first class. You might ask your students to tell a little about themselves
or you might ask them about their expectations for the class (try having
each student ask one question he/she hopes will be answered during the
semester). This is a great time to learn students’ names and to find out
what interests them.
Speak Slowly and Carry a Big Piece of Chalk. Speak clearly and slowly,
repeat important points, and write anything your students should remember
on the board.
Start Teaching. The first class is probably not the best time to introduce
complex ideas, theories or problems since many students are still "shopping"
for classes and not all of your students will make the first day of class.
However, it is important to give students a sample of what they can expect.
Introduce the subject, conduct a simple experiment or hold a casual discussion
related to the course material. Students need to become familiar with how
you will conduct class, your voice and your expectations. The first class
can set the tone for the entire semester.
Be Enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is often the best teaching technique. If
you enjoy and respect the material, your students will also.
Review. Look through your students’ index cards or your attendance
notes. Begin the process of learning names and preparing a grade/attendance
book.
Talk To Your Peers. Share your experiences.
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