Page 102 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 03 11/20/02 11:46 AM Page 91
Setting the Stage for Learning 91
have them form pairs. Give them 10 minutes to introduce themselves to their partners
and to learn three things about the person that they do not already know (e.g., some-
thing they are good at, characteristics that they feel make them unique, or workplace
skills that add value to the team). At the end of 10 minutes, have each person introduce
his or her partner and tell the three things learned about the person. In turn, their part-
ner does the same for them.
This is a good activity to use in orientation, teambuilding, or other situations in which
new people or groups are coming together for the first time. In using the activity, you
can learn strengths or areas for improvement about participants.

Biographical Introductions

A sixth technique that can be used to learn about participants and their needs is to have
them complete a biographical handout similar to Figure 3-2. Once everyone fills out a
form, have him or her stand, do self-introductions, and read their responses to each
statement on the form. As they do, capture the responses to the last statement on a flip
chart for comment and referral.

• My name is
• I work as
• The subject matter of the last five training programs/courses that I have attended are:

1.

2.

3.

4.

• To expand my professional knowledge/skills, I need the following from today’s session:

FIGURE 3-2. Biographical data sheet