A learner’s first class with you is more than just a learning opportunity—it’s your chance to build trust, create a lasting impression, and set the tone for a positive learner-teacher relationship. Families often decide whether to re-enroll based on that initial experience, so getting it right matters.This guide introduces the First Class Five, five key elements to deliver an excellent first class. By focusing on these aspects, you’ll ensure learners are engaged, families are impressed, and your class becomes the first of many successful sessions.
The First Class Five
1. Engagement
Learners thrive when they feel involved in the class. Engagement is about capturing their attention and making them active participants in the learning process.
Actionable Tips:
- Start with an icebreaker to make learners feel comfortable (e.g., “What’s your favorite book or hobby?”).
- Incorporate interactive activities like polls, quizzes, or discussions.
- Use multimedia tools (videos, images, props) to maintain interest.
- Encourage learners to ask questions or share their thoughts.
- Plan to switch up activities or modalities every 5-10 minutes.
2. Enjoyment
Enjoyment makes learning memorable. When learners have fun, they’re more likely to stay engaged and return for future classes.
Actionable Tips:
- Add an element of surprise or creativity (e.g., a fun fact or hands-on activity).
- Use humor appropriately to create a relaxed atmosphere.
- Celebrate small wins during the class (e.g., “Great question!” or “Excellent effort!”).
- Create moments of connection by showing enthusiasm for the subject.
3. Clear Learning Objectives
Families want to know what their learners will achieve during the class. Clear objectives set expectations and help you stay focused on delivering value.
Actionable Tips:
- Start the class by outlining what learners will accomplish (e.g., “Today, we’ll learn how to draw a simple cartoon character.”).
- Use specific, measurable objectives: “By the end of this session, learners will know three coding basics: loops, variables, and conditions.”
- End the class by revisiting the objectives, summarizing progress, and providing time to reflect.
4. Feedback Opportunities
Feedback is a two-way street. It helps learners feel supported and gives families confidence in your teaching.
Actionable Tips:
- Provide real-time feedback during the class (e.g., “Great job identifying that pattern!”).
- Encourage self-assessment: “What did you enjoy most about today’s class?”
- At the end of class, invite families to share feedback via Outschool’s review system.
- Follow up with a personalized note summarizing the learner’s experience.
5. Preparation
Preparation ensures you’re confident, organized, and ready to provide a smooth experience for learners and families.
Actionable Tips:
- Test your technology (audio, video, and screen-sharing tools) before the class.
- Organize materials (slides, handouts, props) in advance.
- Create a class agenda to keep the session structured and on track.
- Arrive early to greet learners as they join, setting a welcoming tone.
Building Trust Through the First Class Five
When you focus on engagement, enjoyment, clear learning objectives, feedback, and preparation, you create a positive and memorable learning experience. This builds trust with learners and families, encouraging repeat enrollments and long-term relationships.
Reflection Questions to Assess Success
After your first class, take a moment to reflect:
- Engagement: Did learners actively participate? Were there moments where they seemed especially interested?
- Enjoyment: Did learners appear to enjoy the session? Did they leave with a smile or express excitement?
- Objectives: Did you achieve the learning goals? Were learners able to demonstrate what they learned?
- Feedback: Did you provide meaningful feedback to learners? Did families share any feedback after the session?
- Preparation: Was the class organized and smooth? Did you feel confident and well-prepared?
Now that you know the First Class Five, it’s time to put them into practice! Use our checklist to plan your first class, reflect on your performance, and continuously improve your approach.
Grab your copy of the First Class Five checklist and explore follow-up resources to keep building your skills.
