Website: Instructional Practices

The First Day of Class


Derek’s Recommendation
I appreciate the practical and creative strategies in this guide, from the advice on creating a course introduction video to resources for learning student names to syllabus orientation techniques like the syllabus quiz and syllabus speed dating.
In the first class meeting, or the first days of your online course, engaging our students in central themes of the course sends the message that we are excited and eager to help our students learn in this course and that the time they invest in the class matters. This is also a great time to begin building a productive, supportive, and inclusive learning environment. Below are some strategies for making the most of the first class meeting or the start of your online course.