One way to get the students to know each other is for them to fill out a card about themselves. Maye there is a former dance teacher in the class,someone who trains animals for the movies, or someone who has traveled to another country with a relief team. Then have the students try to match the person to the information on the card.
Hi Dan:
There are a lot of variations of this idea, most are fun. If your pesonality allows, you can take this further for laughs, more depth, even instructional use.
Regards, Barry
I too like to have students interview each other and then introduce the other person. It is a fun way for the students to start communicating with each other.
Hi Ellen:
I think learning names early on is importatnt. I do an exercise that through repitition allows me to name all my new students (24) names, residencies, and family members. Everyone is amazed. But it's simple - repitition. Then I use that as a teaching moment to demonstarte they are also able to recall and memoraize mounds of information through repitition.
Regards, Barry
Icebreakers are a great way to learn student names and help the class to bond as a group. There are many different ways to do this--listing 'favorites' assigning pairs to interview each other and present to class. Ice breakers can be found on line or in books on teaching methods.
This is a good idea. Online, I do a similar activity. I ask the students what their degree focus is, how far are they into the program, and suggest study groups based on the feedback they provide.
Hi Virginia:
In your setting, I think you have a great ice breaker. I presume the students share these varied experiences with the class in order for the class to appreciate the diversioty that exists among their ranks.
Regards, Barry
I ask each one what they wish to achieve as far as objectives for this course experience. With our students, we have many who have expertise in another field, so I have each student submit a summary in writing of their background.
Hi Charolette:
Good ideas. I like the "anxiety/fear" question. I would review all the cards, choose the topics that most students have and use those. Also, I would try to take the information the students give and seamlessly as possible blend it into my introduction of the course. Thanks for sharing!
Regards, Barry
