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Using Introductions To Break the Ice and Build Rapport
by Beth Sunny
Introductions can serve more of a purpose than just getting to know each student. They can also give you a way to build rapport with your students.
by Beth Sunny & Vera Michaels
The purpose of asking students to introduce themselves at the beginning of class is three-fold. First, this allows you to associate the student's name with each face. Second, each student can relay any concerns or expectations about the class. Third, introduction time gives late students an opportunity to show up without missing much.
The critical part of the introduction session is getting the students' expectations. If you don't know what the students hope to gain from the class, you are likely to leave them unsatisfied.
Keep introductions moving at a fast pace. You wouldn't want students to get bored during this time. One suggestion is to use a flip chart. Quickly go around the room asking all students to offer their first names and one expectation they have for attending the class. Write each student's first name on the left side of the flip chart, and then write each expectation on the right side of the chart. When you have allowed people to introduce themselves, ask the entire class for any other expectations that may have been missed. This exercise, for a room of 10 people, should take about 10 minutes. Post this flip chart in the room and refer to it during class.
For example: "Bob, remember when you said you wanted to learn about headers and footers? Here is how you do it." Here is a step that will guarantee your evaluations will be stellar. Before students fill out the evaluations go over each expectation on the list. Ask the students if you met their expectations and if they had any outstanding expectations you have not met. If they agree that their expectations have been met, your reviews should be fabulous!
*********** Beth Sunny and Vera Michaels share their extensive knowledge in IT and training as freelance writers for SharperTraining.com. Don't miss their training tips along with insights from other experienced trainers in SharperTraining.com's "Focus On Training" newsletter. To subscribe, visit http://lb.bcentral.com/ex/manage/subscriberprefs.aspx?customerid=1468
About the Author
Beth Sunny is a writer, publisher, and computer trainer. She owns Software Training Resources (STR), a courseware company known for their "QuickSteps to Learning" training manuals. STR launched an exciting web site in January of 2001. The web site is specifically for the Computer Training Industry - http://www.sharpertraining.com. The site offers a place for individuals in the Computer Training Industry a place to advertise their business, correspond with others in the industry, find training products, and discover software tips and read great articles relating to computer training. Visit the site today! http://www.sharpertraining.com
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