I ask my students in clinical and classroom settings to introduce themselves and give a little bit of "personal" information as well (including myself). It's amazing how this connects everybody instantly.
Thanks Gloria for the advice. I think sometimes my approach is too intense. I need to try and relax and be more approachable.
Jackie
Hi Gloria,
Good way to get a class off to a good start. Your approach helps to reduce the tension of the class and get the students settled in. This is very important for setting the stage for learning.
Gary
I make sure that when they enter the classroom my voice, smile and posture is welcoming. I ask them to introduce themselves and to tell me what their expectations are of the class. This opening allows them to participate and it opens up the opportunity for me to share my expectations of them in the class.
I used an icebreaker last time and it worked out well so I will be using it again. I have my students introduce themselves to one another and then "interview" each other with questions I have on the board. They seem to really enjoy the activity so much that this quarter I will have to limit the time better as we ran over the class time.
I teach clinicals in nursing with small groups so I use icebreakers to help the group get to know each other and the teacher.
