Course Introductions

As the course begins, introduce yourself by sharing your name, teaching and research specialities, interests, or anything else you’re comfortable sharing. Set specific expectations and have students do the same. This is an effective ice breaker activity that allows students to get to know one another. Create this activity as a discussion forum and have students respond to several peers.

Using this strategy to build a sense of community at the beginning of a course helps create a safe and trusting environment. You also set an initial expectation that students will engage with you and each other.

Options:

  • Post an “official” biography on a dedicated page in the course. Include your picture so students can see what you look like.
  • Post a friendlier introduction as the first post in an introduction discussion forum.
  • Create a short video or audio introduction that welcomes students to the course to accompany a brief bio

Below you will find example prompts for introduction forums. Depending on how you would like students to provide their introductions (or how you’d like to provide your introduction), select from text, audio, or video. You can also combine all three options and give students the choice in how they respond. The provided links are to either Canvas guides or UNC Charlotte FAQs.

Text Introductions:

Example:
Welcome to the course! Please take a moment to introduce yourself to the class. Introduction posts will be due by Wednesday at midnight. Provide:

  • Your name
  • Your college/program
  • What you hope to get out of the course
  • Your one “must have” item or (family-friendly) activity that makes you happy
  • Read your fellow participants’ posts, and respond if you’d like.

Video Introductions:

Welcome to the course! Please take a moment to introduce yourself to the class. Introduction videos will be due by Wednesday at midnight. Provide:

Audio Introductions

Welcome to the course! Please take a moment to introduce yourself to the class. Introductions will be due by Wednesday at midnight. Provide: