When students give their opinion and it brings about an interesting discussion in class, I usually would ask a question, I would include it as one of the questions in the quiz the next day.
I agree with Cynthia. I also find that in trying to help students think in the mindset of the field they wish to be in, it is helpful to know how they get to their opinions and expand on their ideas in order to help create clarity.
Cynthia,
Listening is one of the most effective teaching tools an instructor has. With your approach you are showing respect for the students and their ideas about the subject. This is how rapport is developed and learning enhanced.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Yes, I really agree with this statement. In addition, saying something like " I really like where you're going with this idea, tell me more, or what is your thinking process behind that." I think it shows the students we are interested in what they have to say and value their contribution to the discussion. It helps create an open and inviting learning environment in the classroom.
Involve other students in the discussion. Chances are more than one student has the same opinion.
Daniel,
This is such an important part of teaching. By earning the respect of your students and then developing rapport with them you will be able to keep them engaged and focused on the content being shared. The human factor is a part of everything we do so we need to learn how to use it in different settings so our students will see us as models in this area.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Praising a student for their input and making it relevent to the class.
I think that a big piece of this goes back to the "human factor". Simple things like eye contact, follow on questions, inclusion of their topic or idea into more profound discussion in class goes a long way to validate or expound on their opinion. Another sure way of showing them that their opinions are important is through timely adjustments through course/ module critiquess. If there is validity to a critique and you adjust quickly to it, it will show the students that your goal is to provide the most to them as possible.
Wendy,
You are using a comfortable and supportive method of getting input from students. This approach will help the students see the value of the content being shared and the reason why they need to contribute to the discussions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I like to give students time to think about their response to a scenario. I sometimes ask the same question multiple ways in order to make sure all students have a chance to voice their opinion. I appreciate when students share an opinion that is not the general consensus of the class and I encourage them to explain the why's. I make it a point to thank the student and acknowledge the head nods and/or signs that another student 'gets' the new point of view.
Carmen,
Can you share some examples of this?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Carmen,
What are some ways you do this?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It will give students a positive view of themselves.
Showing you value their opinion with positive comments
Wendy,
This timely response can be so valuable in keeping students engaged in the class. They know they are being respected for their input and valued for their contributions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Michael,
Good strategies that all instructors should use.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Kristine,
Student feedback is the essence of instructional improvement. I have my students fill out 3X5 cards when we complete an assignment, quiz or some other activity. This ongoing feedback helps me to refine my instructional delivery options to better meet their needs. I find this feedback more valuable than the end of the course evaluations because they are real time responses.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
One can give the student immediate positive feedback with remarks like, "Joe raises a good point..."
Maintain eye contact with the student who is speaking, repeat what the student has said to demonstrate that you were listening and ask students for additional clarification.
