A basic assumption behind this page is that we want all our students to legitimately succeed in our classes. We are willing to set up an environment that fosters such an outcome. The first day of class is key to creating that environment.

It's also the day that's most influential for setting students' expectations of how the class is going to "work." What you do the first day is pretty much what you're going to get the rest of the time -- for example, if you want active participation in class, you have to start immediately.

The attached presentation offers ideas for:

Desired outcomes for the first day of class
Sample agendas that support those outcomes and encourage growth mindset
Activities
Special considerations for inclusivity
What not to do

Here is a description for the syllabus reconnaissance and interview.

First day of class Fall 2022.pptx

Hermann, A.D., and D.A. Foster. 2008. Fostering approachability and classroom participation during the first day of class: Evidence for a reciprocal interview activity. Active Learning in Higher Education 9(2):139-151.