Welcome to the Tuesday Teaching Tip, an easy-to-implement tool that you can use immediately in your classroom teaching.
TUESDAY TEACHING TIP: Getting to know your students
This week, we challenge you to put aside content for a few minutes in class–get to know your students and let them get to know you. Building these connections can transform the classroom experience into a more dynamic and supportive community.
Here are a few ways to do it:
- Start with Icebreakers: Use the first few minutes of class for icebreakers where students can share something about themselves. In return, share a story or interest that relates to the course topic.
- Interactive Introductions: This week, have students fill out a brief survey with questions like, “What are your hobbies?” or “What’s one thing you’re excited about this quarter?” Share a few of your own answers to these questions with the class.
- Office Hours as Conversations: Encourage students to visit you during office hours by framing them as casual conversations rather than formal meetings. Take some time to ask about their interests, career aspirations, or how they’re finding the course.
- Use Names Regularly: Learn and use students’ names in class discussions. This small gesture significantly boosts students’ sense of belonging. Use name tents (sample) as a way to learn their names and get their feedback after each class.
- Be Open About Your Learning Journey: Occasionally, mention how you handled challenges during your own academic or professional journey. This encourages students to persist through their own difficulties and helps them see you as a mentor who’s been in their shoes.
DID YOU DO IT?
Let us know how it went. We would love to hear your feedback about how you implemented today’s Tuesday Teaching Tip in your classroom. Click here to fill out our 3-question survey.
UPCOMING EVENT
- Come to the first CAFE (Conversations Advancing Faculty Excellence) next week to learn about campus resources available to all faculty in our Partnering for Teaching and Student Success CAFE on Tuesday, October 1, 12:15 - 1:15 in Varsi 222. Lunch will be provided.
WANT TO READ A LITTLE MORE?
This week’s Tuesday Teaching Tip was prepared by Patti Simone (Psychology) on behalf of Faculty Development.
Missed a teaching tip? Read them all here.
And check out our full calendar of CAFEs and other Faculty Development events.
