First Impressions
Very important to the students
I will ask the students to introduce themselves and share their goals and aspirations with the class.
Arthur,
A good first impression goes a long way in setting the tone for the upcoming class sessions. It is so much easier to build on a positive first impression rather try to dig out of a negative hole. Thanks for the good point.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
First impressions do go a long way. Getting to know your students by asking backgrounds and experience questions are an icebreaker too!
On the very first day of class, I ask students about their backgrounds-work and education, family, only if they want, of course, that's illegal in an interview. I ask about their goals, which area of medicine they enjoy, and then something personal, like their favorite food, movie, or music. This is a nice ice-breaker, and it helps me remember their names.
I read in Oprah's magazine that a good ice-breaker is to ask people to tell an outrageous lie about themselves, then explain why they chose that lie. I have used it in the classroom, and students really get a kick out of it, and it again helps me remember their names.
