These activities are a great way to get student actively involved in learning the material. The more you get them to think outside the box about the material the better. It also allows them the opportunity to feel like they are part of the discussion.

A combination of powerpoints, white board and discussions are a great way to pull the information together. It gives everyone a chance to actively participate in learning the material.

I like to surprise my students when we do introductions. I like to ask questions that most don't. Like what do you like to do for fun, what is your favorite movie/tv show, and other like that. Then answer the same questions. It makes everyone more relaxed and also sets up the room as a place where we can openly talk about issues.

Planning class material ahead of time is very useful. You just have to be careful to leave "wiggle room". Sometimes I send more time talking about a topic then originally planned since the students are contributing to the topic. The more discussion on a topic the better and you have allow for time for this to happen when you are planning for class.

I like to use lots of everyday examples while teaching class. Especially when we are discussing topics that are concepts. It is easier to understand a concept when you have a real world example to pair the concept with.