In a few hours, I'll be back in the classroom after almost nine months away. Away from a US classroom, that is. My short teaching stint in China makes me pretty sure I can still teach, but I have to say, I'm nervous. This, however, is not a new thing. I've been teaching since 1983, and I have low level nervousness on the first day of every single new quarter or semester. It's not a lack of confidence that fuels my jitters, it's just the unknown--all those brand new students--and the excitement.
I love teaching. As far as I'm concerned, it's just plain fun to hang around with college students and talk about big ideas, great books, and good writing. You know, now that I think about it, I think a lot of my first day nervousness comes from my conviction that day one is crucial. I think you have to really interest them on the first day: grab their attention, make them laugh, get them to talk a little, and get them to look forward to coming back. That's a tall order. Too many students arrive with the idea that learning is passive and that all they have to do is sit quietly and receive wisdom. One or two will show up with that "I dare you to teach me" attitude. Thankfully, plenty are eager to participate actively once they see that their ideas won't be laughed at.
The good news is that my nerves go away in about the first two minutes of class. Once I crack a joke that provokes a laugh or say something that makes them lock eyes with me in that way that tells me I have them, I'm fine. I'm sure that after nine months, I still have it. I'll find out soon.
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