Introductions
I find that on the first day of my class, that when i go around the room and have students introduce themselves and say where they are from, is a great ice breaker. This also gives me as the instructor, a chance to make small talk with each student, it also turns out that alot of the student may live close to one another. This helps in recognizing some of the characteristcs of your students as well as identifying some familiararity with other students that may be able to assist students with some issues.
Hi Eric,
This is a good thing to do as it helps to establish you as a professional that is sharing his knowledge with others. The students know you are the "real deal". It also shows them how they can use the skills they are going to develop to make a career just like you have done. Good job.
Gary
I also give the students a bit of history about professional self. I go over my work history and some of the things I have done. I feel this helps to validate why I can and do teach. I also try and instill in them the passion I have for my field and teaching. I think giving them a positive point from the beginning lets them know I am here for them and only them.
I agree to get to know the student on the first day allows the instructor to get an understanding of where they are from what they are about and break the ice definetly.
An ice breaker is always a good idea and it allows the students not only to see where or how close they live to each other but it helps the instructor feel theclass out as too the back ground each student has in the area that they are trying to teach.
I Agree With John I Do The same thing In My Class On The First Day That's Getting To Know Your Students
