How to Start Off a Training Session

It is important to get your audience's attention right at the start of a workshop. Often when teaching in a computer lab, adults will be tempted to use email or search the internet. Here are some tips how to engage your audience and keep them focused on you.
Getting Attention:
Address the teachers respectfully - "Excuse me Ladies and/or Gentleman." (Tip provided by TechLearning.com)
Ask for their attention - Can I please have everyone's attention?
Ask them to shut off their monitors and watch you
Ask the teachers to put the mouse on it's back to rest. Tell them the mouse is tired and needs a break (Tip provided by TechLearning.com and Janice Friesen)
Engaging their Interest:
Smile
Tell a joke or a personal story
Begin with hands-on activity
Start with an inspirational quote
Ice Breakers:
Trainers will often use an exercise such as an ice breaker to ease the tension, introduce the group or activity and start the training off in a positive way. If the ice breaker can teach a skill, even better. Visit the two sites below for example activities.
Training Icebreaker Supersite ~ www.odportal.com/training/icebreakers.htm
Tools for Trainers ~ www.reproline.jhu.edu/english/5tools/5icebreak/icebreak2.htm
Educational Cyber Playground ~ www.edu-cyberpg.com/Teachers/jargon.html