Page 254 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 07 11/20/02 12:29 PM Page 243
Getting Engaging and Energizing Learners 243
acquainted
Activities
I‘d like Toy story
to introduce
It‘s my
birthday
Let‘s get
together

Help
yourself What a zoo

Truth or
fiction Remember
me ?
My potato

MINDMAP 1. Getting Acquainted Activities

I’d Like to Introduce . . .

To provide a different approach for participant introductions, do a little advance
preparation. Create a colorful flip chart page with borders or small art characters (e.g.,
flowers, a smiling sun, or cartoon) somewhere on the page. Across the top, write in
bold capital letters, “INTRODUCING . . .”. Spray the page with artist’s adhesive or
photo mount so that items will stick without tape. Display the page by the room
entrance.
As participants arrive, give them a 3 × 5 colored index card (use a variety of colors to
add pizzazz to the room) or a small piece of blank colored paper about the size of the
cards. These paper strips can be cut in shapes (e.g., stars or geometric shapes, such as those
found in the Tools for Trainers section in the appendices). Have each person print his or
her name, title, and organization on the card along with one strength (e.g., knowledge,
skill, or attitude) that he or she possesses related to the session topic. Once finished,
participants should put their cards on the flip chart page. After everyone has arrived and
is seated, move the flip chart page to the front of the room. Ask for a volunteer to come
up and take any card other than his or her own. That participant should then read the