January/February 2002 - Icebreakers
By: Virgil E. Varvel Jr.
Keywords: Ice Breaker, Online Learning, Online Teaching, Online Techniques, Ice Breaking; Icebreakers; Meeting Starts

Here is an article about icebreakers.  The text  Engaging the Online Learner gives some good examples of ice breakers, but this article goes into more depth.   He focuses on the what, when, & why of ice breakers.  In particular:

1. He defines an ice breaker

2. Explains what ice breakers are used for:

                a. facilitating introductions

                b. prior knowledge assessment

                c. environment creation/fostering group unity

                d. topic segues

                e. prepare participants

                f. energizers

3. Explains when ice breakers should be used

4. Why ice breakers are important for online classes

5. Guidelines for choosing an ice breaker

6. Resources for finding ice breakers

Here is the link: http://adulted.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&zTi=1&sdn=adulted&cdn=education&tm=42&f=10&tt=14&bt=1&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.ion.illinois.edu/resources/pointersclickers/2002_01/index.asp

I’m also attaching the article:

icebreakersforOnlineclasses.pdf