Getting to know your audience
I can appreciate the idea of employing the use of "ice breakers" in the classroom. I've found that employing this strategy to ascertain the climate of the classroom works well. Even in cases where you may have former students taking another class with you.
D'Ann,
This sounds like an exciting activity. When do you assign it?
Tremayne Simpson
I use "All About Me's" as an ice breaker. The students put together a power point presentation all about them. They include pictures of friends family, pets, vacations etc, and present it to the class. They really seem to enjoy it. It also breaks down stereo types.
The first day of class I ask the students to introduce themselves and what their goal and reason is for coming to Culinary School. It tends to break the ice and allows me to understand where they are coming from.
Lindsey,
I agree. "Ice breakers" seem to set the tone for the overall classroom environment. Successful activities can positively impact the student/student and student/instructor interactions, for the entire course.
Tremayne Simpson
I like ice breakers because they loosen the atmosphere. There are many "teacher" types. It's just helps to put everyone on an even level and allows everyone to be human.
Ice breakers are awesome! i have found this to really encourage my students to engage in what intrests them in with our class time. This allows students to apply knowledge given and taking so they can relate to. It also gives them visuals!
I have also found they still appreciate the activity of the instructor taking intrest in what the had taken previously it is truly an Ice breaker to start a firt day classroom discussion and also engage every one.
I often use "ice breakers" to begin a classroom discussion. Referring to something topical--something in the news, for instance, is a great way to get students talking so they are engaged in active learning
Altrovise,
Interesting point! In cases where you have students that have previously taken a course with you, I have found that they still appreciate the activity because it gives them an opportunity to learn about their classmates and they tend to take on a role as a "veteran" of the process, which can encourage other students.
Tremayne Simpson
