What about those students who ALWAYS have something to ask, even though you can tell that they actually know the answer to their own question. I have had a few students who "like to hear themselves talk" and would ask questions just to ask one... Also, I have had students who thinks that it is ok to share personal stories, to the point where they are a little "TMI" :O) I have always had a hard time turning that into something worthwhile and be applicable to the discussion.
Sandra, great points. One of the things I tell students is what is simple to one person may be very complex to another. I find computer programming very simple and I totally understand syntax and the rules but I find Business Law incredibly complex and difficult to understand. I have friends that are attorneys and they find the law easy to understand but have no clue about computer programming. Both of us consider the other very smart in some areas but not in others and this is totally fine and is just how things are. The focus is to become an expert at something and then use that skill to gain a career.
James Jackson
I think that many mothers told that to their children and I tell the students the something and there reminded of this every day. What we may think that is a dumb question may not be to someone else specially if they don’t know the subject. what I do is ask the students to give me a good argument an why he or she belives is right and then I walk them through the correct answer and how to look for it.
kimberly, great topic. Making students feel comfortable and safe in asking any question is a significant factor in achieving learning outcomes.
James Jackson
