Online Introductions
I facilitate classes online, so I have to take a different approach when it comes to introductions. I'll provide my students with academic, professional and a bit of personal information about myself. They do not have the ability to speak in the platform we use, but they can communicate via text. I'll ask the class a series of basic questions they can all answer within the text pods. These questions have proven to be a good "ice breaker" and the students communicate more openly after this activity. I also encourage them all to post introductions within the class discussion board area. Are there any other methods you've found to be successful?
I ask students about their career goals, their previous experience with the course topic, etc. to get some idea of their goals and background. Another question that could be asked is, "Why are you taking this class?" This can help you to find out if the students are there because it is a requirement or if they have a genuine interest in the subject.
Patrick,
I do the same thing with my online classes. I also take the time to respond to every single student and I try to find some commonality with them. This is time consuming, but it speeds up the process of building rapport and trust.
I like to spend time reviewing my course expectations and emphasizing what I believe are the most common hurdles to overcome as well as the outline for future "chats" and how they relate to the assignments. I encourage students to 'get to know' each other in the online environment. We discuss long term goals briefly, so students can identify those whose interests are similar to their own.
HI Patrick,
I do the same thing. I believe its important in the first class to set the tone of the course. I create a zen atmosphere using an ice breaker and then I get started.
I like giving a meaningful introduction to the course. I like to intertwine my experiences with the terminal course objectives. My students really like to hear my experience as well as the course objectives together. It bridges the real life experiences with the course.
From there, I like to ask my students there goals for the course. I like to engage them as much as possible.
Thanks!
Patrick, I do something similar in my online introduction as well. I follow-up my intro with a slide with a few personal characteristics from which students can choose. This list is actually the same list I use in my on-ground classes. One thing I add in my online student introduction is where each student is located. Some respond to place of origin and current location and this gets students to chat a bit about where they live and sometimes current events/weather from that area of the country.
