Post date: Apr 19, 2016 3:14:58 PM
Using well thought out icebreaking exercises at the beginning of a training session goes a long way in setting the right tone for an engaging learning experience. However, too many training programs begin with icebreakers that may bring some fun to the participants, but achieve very little in terms of creating an effective learning trigger for them. Here are 5 essential things a great icebreaker must incorporate.
A thought-starter or a learning trigger
A well planned icebreaker not only acts as a soft launchpad for the participants to unwind and connect with one another but also triggers among the participants a curiosity to know more about the relevant topic. This immediately hooks the trainees' attention, making them more receptive to learning from each other as well as from the resource person.
A lot of movement, noise, fun and laughter.
A good icebreaker engages all the senses of the participants, thereby heightening their sensory acuity and preparing them for the upcoming exercises. It should be more than just a recitation of a name or giving an answer to a question in a quiz.
Must help build rapport among participants.
One main reason why icebreakers are used so extensively in training is to bring the participants together and to let them know about one another in a more relaxed and natural setting. This helps in building better rapport and better communication among the members of the group.
Must be brief and not too time - consuming.
Icebreakers can sometimes take up far more time than originally planned, especially when the group size is big. It's therefore a good idea to plan a brief one so that it doesn't expand into the time planned for the subsequent activities. Generally, professional trainers plan somewhere between 10 - 20 minutes for the icebreaker.
Must be easy to explain and convenient to execute.
Elaborate instructions on how to play a game, for instance, can leave everyone confused and a little tensed, defeating the very purpose of an icebreaker. At the same time, trainers must check before hand that there is not only enough room for the planned activity but also required resources to carry out the activity without causing any injury to any one.
Thus, an icebreaker is a fantastic training tool and when used thoughtfully, it can set the stage for a great learning experience for the participants.