Hello James, I follow a similar procedure on the firt day as well. It does not matter what the course is. The procedure is a great icebreaker. I go first--I introduce myself, I give some background information, such as my teaching experience and educational credentials, and I also add a little personal touch by talking about my wonderful family. Students feel more at ease whenever I go first, and then the students follow suit. Sometimes the students tell you more than you really want to know, but it is a good bonding exercise as well. You can learn alot about the student by doing this exercise. Patricia