The importance of icebreakers in training

Every trainer knows that it’s important to try and encourage engagement throughout a training session, and that needs to be kicked off from the get go.

Icebreakers play a crucial role in fostering a positive learning environment and enhancing participant engagement and helping to create a network amongst your learners. 

In this article we will chat through some of the positive impacts of good icebreaker.

Enhancing Comfort and Engagement

Icebreakers help to alleviate that initial awkwardness when you enter a room (even a virtual one) full of strangers. An introductory activity can create a more relaxed and jovial atmosphere conducive to learning. By encouraging interaction, they enable participants to get to know each other, which can reduce anxiety and promote open communication.

Building Rapport and Group Dynamics

Icebreakers can facilitate bonding among participants, which will come in handy when you get to the group work later in your training as it will encourage teamwork and collaboration. Establishing rapport not only enhances group dynamics but also leads to a shared focus, making subsequent learning more effective. Icebreakers can reveal varying levels of engagement and comfort among participants, allowing you as a trainer to adjust your approach or notice different group dynamics that may need management.

Preparing for Learning

Icebreakers serve as a preparatory tool, helping participants transition into the training content. They can prime learners by activating prior knowledge related to the topic, enhancing their readiness to learn.

Tailoring to Learning Objectives

Effective icebreakers are often aligned with the training goals and objectives. They can be relevant to the content being taught, which helps to create interest and curiosity among participants. For example, if the training focuses on communication skills, an icebreaker that involves listening or feedback can be particularly effective. 

But equally breaking the ice can just be about fun and connection, the learning can come later. Sometimes it can be hard to link content to an introduction game, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to force a link.

If you want to learn more about icebreakers and see some of our suggestions on inclusive icebreakers check out our Inclusion and Accessibility in Volunteer Training Toolkit.