Understanding the learner characteristics
By understanding the learner characteristics, we'll be able to establish a rapport with each individual student to help them with their success in their classes. We'd be able to provide them with additional resources specific to their needs whether they are online tutorials, videos, discussions or example assignments.
I find this to be especially important when working with international students as we'll be able to provide them with clear understanding of what they should be expecting in the class. I find one of the best ways to understand each individual student is within the introductions and having an ice-breaker discussion assignment.
I've used several ice breaker ideas that I've found with an Internet search.
Hi Nicolette,
Thank you for the insight about ice breakers for online students. They are just as important or maybe even more so since they don't meet physically.
All of these activities help to make the students feel they are a part of the class structure.
Gary
I also feel that an ice-breaker is important, both for the students and the instructor. When the student gives a bit of information about him/herself, It gives the instructor an insight as to "where the student is" in terms of experience, autonomy and learning style. It also allows the students to actualize being part of the group, something that I feel is important in an internet class setting, where there is no face to face contact.
Hi Ron,
Look for ice breakers that incorporate some aspect of the field. I use several in my field that lets the students get a taste of the field while getting to know each other. The combination works well for the purposes of getting the course started.
Gary
When I first started teaching I was an advocate of this approach and used it regularly. I now find, however, that ice breaker assignments are pretty commonplace in classes and many students are simply not interested in another "get acquainted" exercise; they just want to get to work on the class materials. I'm looking for a new opening approach that will be refreshing and just as helpful.
Hi Vincent,
Due to different life experiences students can get confused about course expectations and requirements. By taking your approach they will have a clear understanding of what is going to occur in the course and what they role in the course is going to be.
Gary
