Role playing as a aid to questioning
Giving the students a role (like a reporter, detective or researcher) can help them by providing a context for creating and asking questions, especially when coupled with a scenario that they have to "solve". For example, presenting them with a "crime scene" and "suspects" (role played by the instructor and having different personalities and characteristics to keep it interesting) and then asking them to create the questions they need to ask to solve the crime is a very useful critical thinking that students find both interesting and engaging. This method is also helpful if you are a frustrated actor and want to practice your technique.
Hi Brandon - I'll wager that the role play technique will go well! Best wishes - Susan
I really like this role-playing idea to enhance learning. I can see where it would really engage students, and get them involved in the questioning process, while also deepening the learning effect through application, critical thinking, etc. By personality profile I tend to be a heavy rules/framework kind of person, so I can imagine it would be a challange for me. I'd want to try and sort of script and then control the scenario in some detail. I think I'd worry about how too much free flow could send the class/event in a direction off the tracks. But, I definitely see value in this technique. Thanks for offering this, I think I'll try it.
Hi Bonnie- Thanks for your post to the forum. Role playing also improves retention of information, because in order to role play the student must apply it. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I have used role playing in several classes. The feedback is always positive. It creates a true learning experience.
I like the role playing idea because it can be a fun activity. If information pertaining to your subject is heavily involved. Students may retain that information better.
