First Class Preparation

Whether it is your very first class or you have been teaching for 20 years the following 6 things will get you off to a great start every time!

1. Set Up the Environment
*Furniture arrangement
*Name badges or table tents
*Arrangement of audio/visual media
*Location of rest rooms and beverage services
*Copies of class schedule, objectives, and content
*Establish an inviting and organized atmosphere
2. Introduce Yourself and Students to Each Other
*Establish your credibility to teach this class
*Explain and model the ice breaker
*Facilitate introductions as the ice breaker proceeds
3. Give an Overview of the Course
*Review schedule, objectives or course content
*Solicit student objectives
4. Clarify Expectations
Hear theirs and share yours. “Give them a skill to take home the very first night which they can use tomorrow”
5. Use The Runners Warm-up - Distance runners don’t start a race at full speed. They stretch first and begin slowly working out the kinks, then set a good workout pace. Afterward they cool down. Students should be treated the same way.
6. Give Them a Sneak Preview of Coming Attractions.