Introductions
I have always done an "Oprah" exercise with my classes. I have the students break into pairs and they interview each other on a series of set questions. After, they introduce one another. Immediately one connection is made. Because the questions are the same for each pair, a bunch of connections are always made across the class. One semester, I decided the exercise was too much and didn't do it. The class NEVER gelled. Unbelievable what attention to this topic can do for you.
I usually do this with my Foundations classes. Each student interviews one other person in the class then reports to the rest of the class what he or she found out about the other person. I usually try to comment about something each student does or is interested in doing. Not only does it let them get to know each other, it helps me learn their names faster.
Hi Charmaine,
I bet your first class sessions are a lot of fun and really help you to get to know your students' names and something about them. I am sure that your students talk to each other about some of their unconventional facts throughout the course.
Gary
When I have big classes, the tool I use to get to know my students is asking them to introduce themselves and share one unconventional fact. Something that is not typically told. Boy have I heard it all! Vegetarians, sci-fi fanatics, shop-a-aholics etc. it always creates a laugh out loud atmosphere and helps me rember their names and helps them get to know eachother too.
Hi Geoff,
Great example of something that does work and works well. Without it the class didn't gel is a good to know so we as instructors can continue introducing activities that helps students to get settled into the course.
Gary
