Students Introduce Each Other
One possible technique that invites students to be part of the class (even though they are distant) is to have them interview each other in a Chat room and then post each other's biography. Students should be paired up (Jim interview Jenny, Jenny interview Jim) and in addition to establishing the typical biographical information, students could also ask 1-3 specific questions to enhance the introductions. (One of my favorite open-ended questions in class intros is, "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?" Students could be )
Once the interview has taken place, students post their fellow student's data to the Bio forum.
Of course, this technique requires that students connect in real-time via phone or chat - which is not always convenient or available. Course design and technology play an important role here, but the attempt to bring students together across the distance - so they are perceived as "people" and not "objects" to each other - is an effective goal.
Dan, this is a great idea. I always find out that the more I know about the students, the more comfortable I feel and that also applies to students. I always make them post a short bio but the interview could work even better. Thank you.
I like this idea, it is more creative than the typical student-authored bio. I think it may also be a quicker way to establish a sense of community in the classroom. How do you adapt it for an odd number of students?
Guerda,
I use this as well to learn about my students to I as the instructor can connect better with them and on a more personal level. This helps to establish a sense of community among your students and between you and your students.
Herbert Brown III
This is a great way for the students to be acquainted with one another. This is not impossible to accomplish in an online environment. Ice breakers work as effectively.
What's your favorite candy bar or ice cream?
Do you have any pets? What did you name them?
Dan,
Great creative idea. I really like how the interview process connects with students with each other and builds toward that collaborative learning community.
Herbert Brown III
