Savannah Teacher Resources
Set the tone for the class from the very beginning
No matter what you are teaching, what matters just as much as your content is how your class FEELS- and how the students feel when they leave.
Begin each class with congratulating the students on attending – on just showing up. Remember that some people have afraid to go out into social settings. Share that learning something new is good for their brain and being in a social setting is healthier than stopping smoking. If possible, start the class with a collaborative project – a group mural or collage. Maybe start with a blind drawing exercise to make people start laughing. Laughter lowers barriers quickly.
Convey that the class is about expression – not skill!
Speak like a shepherd
Gently guide the students, warmly invite their efforts and let people find their peace.
Celebrate effort over outcome.
Let curiosity lead. Your energy sets the tone.
Allow students to convey their comfort level
The best classes leave students wanting more. Some students do not feel comfortable being put on the spot – that’s why we encourage teachers to use our NAME PLACE CARDS that allow students to convey how much they want to be called out or speak. You can download this easy to print piece of paper – then take 2 minutes at the beginning of each class to allow students to write their name and then fold the paper in thirds and open the triangle (you might need a piece of tape to help it stay folded) to sit on the table – showing the green, yellow or red sheep toward the room – so you can know how each person is feeling. Green is for the all-in extrovert – yellow for those who are a little hesitant and the reds prefer to sit quietly and observe. The great part is that each person can easily change their card position if they get comfortable want to share or participate more! Or if someone is talking too much and cannot read the room, everyone can turn their cards to the red sheep.
Help people connect with each other – they will leave your class more satisfied and look forward to future classes!
Click on the image below to go to the NAME CARD to download
After the Class
The students have hopefully connected in your class. If you can create a way for them to keep up with each other, you can help them engage and hopefully take another class.
Do you have a FB group where your students can get weekly tips or exercises? This would allow your students to stay connected and allow you to stay top of mind.
Having a way to follow-up can also give you the opportunity to get feedback. What did people like? What were they uncomfortable with? Do they have ideas for a future class? Ask what they want and they will come back!
Encourage people to go get coffee with each other – maybe at one of the coffee shop sponsors!
Are there any group outing options that relate to your craft or area of expertise? Are there any volunteer opportunities that support what people learned in class? Remember that you are building a community.
Provide a way for people to share contact info – FB or Instagram info.
Consider creating a group chat.
