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I use this exercise on the first day of class. It’s
a non-threatening way to engage the class.
If I have access to a blackboard, I begin this
way:
Write my name on the board, step away and wait.
I can usually count on 3 things:
- Giggles
- Laughter
- Or questions like, how, why what’s it short for? Etc.
If there is no response, I ask if there are any
questions about my name.
It gives me a chance to introduce myself, help them relax, build
a connection, and learn about the students.
After I introduce myself (depending on the audience),*
I pass around either a box of tissue or a new roll of toilet paper,
ask them to pull out/take what they would use depending on the situation.
For each square or sheet of paper, they have to tell the class something
about themselves.
This exercise helps to:
- Create a non-threatening environment, which
enhances learning.
- Learn about the students. Match a story to
a name.
- Select individuals for group activities.
- Provide a forum for students to learn about
each other.
- Use each other as a resource (homework, class
work, etc).
- Form study groups based on common interests.
(I encourage them to share phone numbers, e-mail addresses to
facilitate that process).
- Build community, so they can support each other.
- Find ways to motivate and teach the students.
I have also used a stress-relief ball.
After introducing myself, I throw the ball to person closest to
me. Ask them to introduce themselves by telling me their greatest,
funniest, most outrageous accomplishment or adventure. When done,
the ball is passed to someone else until every one has had a chance
to speak.
*Credit for this exercise should be given to one
of my graduate education courses.
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