Mentioned in this module is the importance of the instructor learning the names of students, including the correct pronunciation of their names. On the first day of class after introducing myself to the student cohort, I ask each student while they are seated to tell me of their first name and their favorite color. On occasion, I’ll do it slightly differently by asking students to tell me their favorite ice cream or favorite vacation spot – or a vacation location where they have never been before but would like to visit. Each time, I notice that every student’s face lights up when they discuss their “favorite” whatever after introducing themselves.
Why is this an effective ice breaker on the first day of class? Read on…
- Reduces Anxiety: Because it requires no movement or complex thought, it lowers the social risk for shy students, making them feel safer.
- Facilitates Name Learning: It provides a structured, quiet moment for the instructor to associate faces with names and hear pronunciation.
- Low-Stakes Participation: Asking for a favorite color or ice cream is easy to answer, preventing the "boring" answers that come from forced personal sharing.
- Establishes Routine: It immediately sets a tone of a participatory classroom where everyone's voice matters, fostering a positive atmosphere.
- Builds Peer Connections: Even a small, shared fun fact helps students find common ground with classmates, reducing tension.
