A. Getting started

  

Tutorials work well when a safe, supportive, interactive environment is created.

The first class sets the tone for the semester.

Make the first class count.

• Introduce yourself, talk to the group about your expectations of them and ask about what expectations they have of you.
• Establish the ground rules regarding punctuality, attendance, use of mobile phones, group activities and the like at the beginning of the tutorial. Perhaps suggest they create their own agreed ground rules. 
• Ask the students questions, and get them to ask questions.
• Establish a give-and-take atmosphere.
• Help them to understand that learning is not a passive activity.
• Consider using an icebreaker activity. 

Icebreakers

An icebreaker is an activity designed to ease tension or relieve formality.  It attempts to help everyone to feel relaxed and get to know each other and begin to build a community. They can also be used in all sessions, not just the first one, and can be adapted for online sessions (synchronous Zoom for example) as well, with a little thought.  

Attached is a file with a few examples to select from.   Icebreakers 

Whatever the icebreaker, make sure you offer students some choice about what and how much to share about themselves. Icebreakers are a great way to help students start making meaningful connections with one another, but students will be more comfortable participating if they feel they have control over the information they are disclosing.