Motivation
I think one of the better icebreakers for a class that contains adult students is to discuss their motivation for being there. It gets them excited about the possibility of achieving their goals, and reminds them that they're in control of their own success.
William, what discussions do you have with your students concerning intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation? You may find this to be a very healthy discussion and one that can assist students as they progress within any career field.
James Jackson
I particularly like this idea. We use icebreakers to bring the students together because, in the short term, it establishes the foundation for group work in class. In the long term, the students are motivated to build relationships because it helps establish contacts that will be valuable in their post-class work environment. The students gain in both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation from the team-building created at the start of class.
Darren, great post. Engagement is the key and if the conversations get the students more engaged with why they are in your class and the benefits you provide then their time in your classroom will result in much higher levels of success.
James Jackson
