Before the Semester Begins
A few days before classes begin, introduce yourself to your students in an email, briefly explaining the course objectives and expectations. This communicates that you believe they can be successful in this class and that you are willing to provide them with the tools to do so. Be sure to state how students can contact you, whether you prefer email or Canvas chat, and your office hours. If you are teaching online, you might also direct them to key course features, especially if there is an activity due in week one.
Welcoming your students
A few days before classes begin, introduce yourself to your students in an email, briefly explaining the course objectives and expectations. This communicates that you believe they can be successful in this class and that you are willing to provide them with the tools to do so. Be sure to state how students can contact you, whether you prefer email or Canvas chat, and your office hours. If you are teaching online, you might also direct them to key course features, especially if there is an activity due in week one.
Pro tip #1: Create a welcome video
Regardless of the course modality, consider making a welcome video. You can use Panopto or even use your phone. The best videos are not fancy, super short (1 鈥� 2 minutes), and capture you, authentically speaking to your students.
Pro tip #2: Continue with the 鈥渞elentless welcome鈥�
In their book Relationship-Rich Education, Felten and Lambert argue that what drives success for college students is making meaningful connections on campus. Students need to feel that they belong in school, that they can find help when they need it, and, from everyone on campus, that they will receive what Felten and Lambert call the 鈥渞elentless welcome.鈥� As faculty, we can help students feel a sense of belonging throughout the semester by