The First Day of Class is more than a time to review the syllabus - it is also an opportunity to establish your expectations, as well as set the tone, for the entire quarter. It's a time for addressing students' questions about what they can expect from you and the course, and a time for you to start learning about your students.

Instructors can also convey their expectations by incorporating typical class activities on that first day. For example, an instructor of a discussion-oriented class might include a discussion on the first day to illustrate what students can expect from a typical class. A successful first day can be a key component of a successful quarter.

CIDR Resources

	CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletins Preparing for the First Day of Class CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin, 1(3) Planning the Course Syllabus CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin, 9(3)
	Consult with CIDR CIDR consultants are available to meet with you as you plan the first day of class. See our Consulting pages on exploring teaching issues and designing courses and assignments for more information. To schedule a consultation, call 206-543-6588, or contact us by email to arrange an appointment.

101 Things You Can Do the First Three Weeks of Class
by Joyce T. Povlacs, Teaching and Learning Center, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Getting Started
by Richard Felder and Rebecca Brent. Chemical Engineering Education, 29(3), 166-167 (Summer 1995)

A Great Beginning: Ten Unspoken Questions from New College Students During the First Days of Class
by Carolyn Lieberg, Associate Director of the Center for Teaching at the University of Iowa

The Most Important Day
by Delivee L. Wright, Teaching and Learning Center, University of Nebraska

Name Pronunciation Guide
designed to help native speakers of English more accurately pronounce common Asian names, from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

• Course Design
• Faculty and TAs
• Grading
• Inclusive Teaching and Diversity