The first interactions in an online or blended course are crucial for setting the tone of the entire learning experience. Students often feel isolated at the beginning, particularly when entering a new digital environment, and this can hinder participation. Introductory activities, therefore, play a central role in reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of belonging. 

Creating a welcome forum where students are invited to introduce themselves can be an effective starting point. Teachers can model the desired tone by sharing personal information–such as their professional background, interests, or expectations for the course–and encouraging learners to do the same. Short video or audio presentations, created with interactive tools, allow participants to put a “face and voice” to their peers, making the virtual classroom feel more personal and human. 

To further strengthen connections, teachers might include icebreaker activities, such as collaborative mind maps, photo sharing, or short quizzes designed to highlight common interests among participants. These activities help learners to recognize similarities, establish trust, and become more comfortable sharing experiences throughout the course.. 

Recommended tools: Forum – BigBlueButton – H5P – Board. 

Last modified: Monday, 15 September 2025, 3:09 PM