The CAIPER Blog
3 Quick Icebreakers for the Virtual Interprofessional Classroom
May 20, 2020
In the latest contribution to our Teaming at a Distance series, author Kelly Ramella shares tips and activities that can be integrated into the virtual classroom to kickstart conversations about interprofessional education (IPE).
Virtual icebreakers with interprofessional education classes is a helpful way to connect with students, reduce stress, and create an engaging learning environment. Here are a few fun ideas to get you started playing virtually.
Ready in 3, 2, 1 ... Go!
#1 Share advice or a quote you live by
- Type all the quotes in the chat to save for everyone to reference later.
- Begin a discussion on how to mobilize the advice to support vulnerable populations during physical distancing.
#2 Ask teams to draw pictures of what it takes to be healthy
- Play music while they draw (Sweet Caroline/Neil Diamond… was my choice).
- Follow up the icebreaker by watching Rebecca Onie’s Ted Talk, “What Americans agree on when it comes to health.”
#3 Play a competitive game between interprofessional teams
- Read a brain teaser, for example: I am light as a feather, yet an average person can’t hold me for more than one minute. What am I?
- Participants call out their name if they know the answer.
- Keep score with each team.
- It is AMAZING how you will quickly learn special knowledge and talents of team members!
- After the game, lead the team in a discussion of importance of brain health and physical activity, and brainstorm how interprofessional teams can address the need for physical activity.
- Listen to Healthy Brain Happy Life with Wendy Suzuki.
Join the Conversation
Teaming at a Distance features guest posts with stories from the field. If you would like to contribute, please email your thoughts and ideas on Teaming at a Distance to caiper@asu.edu.
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