Page 161 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 04 11/20/02 12:00 PM Page 150
150 The Creative Training Idea Book
You can tie this activity into any session; however, it really fits well with team-
building, interpersonal communication, customer service, and other people skills
programs, as you can emphasize that you cannot always tell something about
someone just by seeing them or a picture of them.

Imagination rules the world.
—Napoleon Bonaparte

ICEBREAKERS

There are literally endless possibilities related to helping participants relax and get to
know one another at the beginning of a session. Even if you are conducting a short 1-hour
presentation, you should include an icebreaker of 5 minutes to get learners into the right
frame of mind.
An icebreaker is typically a structured activity designed to encourage networking,
relaxation, and brief introductions. They should be fast paced, upbeat, and fun. They are
not necessarily content driven, although connecting to your program theme can be a
value-added plus.
Here are some of my favorite icebreakers.

Creating a Team Identity

In sessions in which you will have participants interacting in small groups, you can en-
courage a team mentality during introductions. To accomplish this, form teams in some
creative fashion (see Chapter 6). Have team members get to know one another as they
generate a list of characteristics, strengths, or whatever you designate. After they have
done so, have each team identify a group name that describes them or that they prefer.
This name might be based on the list they have generated. Next, give each team flip chart
paper and an assortment of colored markers. Tell participants that they have 15 minutes
to create a graphic image that illustrates their team. Encourage them to get creative and
think outside the box. Once they have finished, have them put their team name on the
picture and post it on the wall. For introductions, have each team member introduce
himself or herself and have someone explain the reasoning behind their name and
image. You can award prizes to one or all teams, as desired. Later in the session, build
in friendly team competitions thorough activities, reviews, and in other ways.

Animal Attraction

This is a creative introductory exercise that uses some fun props. The way I use this activity
is to buy some small brown paper bags (candy size) at one of the local Warehouse Clubs
(Sam’s, BJs, COSTCO, or Price Club) or other businesses that supply retail stores. I then