If you are sitting in the middle of the room, you may want to turn your head from side to side occasionally as you speak so you can address the entire class.
Scientific studies have shown that making yourself smile when publicly speaking endears others to you as they naturally will want to smile back. [3] X Research source
Try practicing your introduction in a mirror to prepare yourself beforehand. A lot of the people in your class will be thinking about what they are going to say when it’s their turn and may not even be watching you the entire time you’re speaking.
If you prefer to go by a nickname, this is the time to give that detail. Say something like, “Hi, my name is Marcella, Marcella Smith, but you can call me ‘Marcie. ’” Include your pronouns in this part of the speech. For example, you can say something like, “Hello, my name is Sydney, Sydney Caldwell. I use she/her pronouns. "
If you are only in the class because you have to be (like a general education course that all students are required to take), you don’t need to say that—chances are a lot of other people are in the same boat.
Avoid sharing overly personal details, like if you’re going through a divorce or recently lost your job. Try to keep things positive and upbeat—you don’t want your first impression to be negative or make other people uncomfortable.
If you’re uncomfortable with adding a photo for privacy reasons, that is okay! If it was requested by your instructor, just send them an email about your reservations to let them know why you aren’t adhering to their guidelines.
Try reading what you wrote out loud to hear how it sounds—this may help you reword or restructure your introduction for the best flow.
You can also share what city you live in if you’re comfortable with that—many students who are in online classes form study groups that either meet in person or online. Remember that less is more—your classmates will be less likely to read 5 paragraphs than they would 1 succinct paragraph.
Having an active presence in your online class will make your overall experience more gratifying, and it’ll also help you engage more with the material.
It’s helpful to share details that students can identify with, but be wary of sharing overly personal information. This is also a time you could share any awards you have won, areas of study you are interested in or involved in, publications, or boards you serve on. You want to establish as much credibility as possible.
Remember that your students see you as the person of authority in the room. Chances are, they won’t notice if you are nervous or forget something you had planned to say. Be confident and know that there is always time to cover anything you may have forgotten.
Setting the tone for the class on the first day is an important part of teaching a successful, engaging course. Practice several times before you actually are in front of your students.
