Resources for the First Days of Teaching

What are effective ways to get to know students and create a positive learning environment from the very beginning of the term? How can you pique students' curiosity about the subject matter? How can you set student expectations for active engagement in the course?

These are common questions we hear about the first days of class, an important time for setting the tone for what is to come. CRLT offers a set of resources to help faculty and GSIs think carefully about getting the most out of the first days. The links in this section provide a wide range of resources, including tips on learning student names, activities for building community, and suggestions for ways to introduce course material and communicate expectations.

The sections on course design and syllabus design offer additional links to sites that can help with last minute course planning. CRLT consultants are also available to work one-on-one with instructors. If you have interesting activities or resources for the first days of your class, please share them in the comments section.