Balancing Engagement and Relevance: Rethinking Icebreakers
In adult instruction, the use of icebreakers has become a staple for fostering connections among participants. However, in our pursuit of meaningful learning experiences, it’s critical to question the relevance of icebreakers.
As trainers and teachers, our ultimate goal should be to connect learners, not just to each other, but also to the learning topic. At the heart of this challenge lies the tension between engagement and relevance. We often find ourselves pressed for time, with more material to cover than there are minutes in a class or training session. This begs the question: How can we make every moment count towards the learning objectives?
One common icebreaker, the “Marshmallow Challenge,” exemplifies this dilemma. While it’s a fun way to encourage teamwork, it may not directly contribute to the learning topic. This gap between social engagement and topic relevance is where the “4Cs Map” (described in the book Training From the BACK of the Room!) offers valuable insights.
The first “C” in the 4Cs Map stands for “Connections,” and it emphasizes the need to connect learners to the topic as well as to each other. Rather than traditional icebreakers (which are often totally disconnected from the learning content), we should create connection activities that serve a dual purpose: building rapport among participants while priming their minds for the upcoming material.
For instance, having learners pair up and share their existing knowledge about the topic can be a low-risk, topic-related way to begin a training session. This approach not only fosters connections but also sets the stage for meaningful discussions and engagement throughout the class. By aligning activities with the learning objectives, we can ensure that every minute in the learning environment contributes to the overall learning experience.
While icebreakers can play a vital role in building connections, it’s helpful to rethink their design to maximize relevance and engagement. By using topic-related connection activities, we can strike a balance between fostering an engaging learning environment and helping learners stay focused on the learning journey ahead.