Faculty Resources

Teaching Resources

Techniques for Learning Names

• In a large class, a standard 8.5x11 sheet of paper can be folded to make a triangular tent to write names on. This is especially good for large classes.
• Make a copy of your roster that you can make notes or sketches on.
• Get the pronunciation or the nickname right on the first day. CalPoly's guide to pronouncing Asian names may help you to pronounce some names of your international students.
• Ask your students to give you a mnemonic to help you and the other students remember their names. (see Activities for Learning Names)
• Get students to fill out First Day Questionnaires that you can take home and study.
• Take a picture of your class and write in students' names.
• Have students write their names in the corner of their drawing boards.
• Use any other tricks that you normally use to learn the names of people that you meet.