Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Keepongoing]

I have been teaching over 7 years and I lecture in a university. I find myself a little nervous the first day of a class. I am always a little anxious about the make-up of the class: will they be good students, will they like me etc. Do you experience this?

[Clockout]

I feel a little nervous before every single class but I've only been doing it for 5 months.

[climber159]

Absolutely! I'm sure you know that every class has a different collective personality. And, until you get to know each class it's difficult to know how to interact with them. I've been teaching in various settings and capacities for nearly ten years, and I still get a little nervous the first time I meet a new group of students.

[zipper]

Anxiety is very normal for most teachers on first days. I deal with this by preparing and bringing along a good flexible lesson plan and supported materials to help me keep focused. But on the very first day, I tend to be laid back, get introductions squared away, rules established, set the agenda for the rest of the semester, encourage communication with ice breakers and activities. I guess that it is also important to exude an air of confidence, authority, competence, humor and respect.

[raewon]

Yes, it's natural. If you have been in this field for 7 years and still have
that feeling ... that's great. I interpret that feeling as meaning
"you care" - and perhaps (but I could be reading too deeply, so don't post
this around your staff room) you are a sincere and dedicated
professional.

[bassexpander]

Nope.. it's fun. I like to meet all of the new students.

The first day is basically a syllabus hand-out and short activity.. then go home, anyway. Nothing to be nervous about!