Participation in the classroom
I find the best way to engage students is to do some small group work on a topic, and then bring it back to the lecture. Students tend to open up if they feel their peers know them on some level, and are less timid to speak up in class. It creates a bond in the classroom, and allows students to share and learn from each others mistakes and experiences. It also helps the students to feel part of the learning process, and that the instructor is indeed interested in hearing what they have to say. I always throw in a contest, as well, for review before any exams; students really push to win on this and review the material!
Hi Kimberly,
Awesome! What a great way to promote team work as well as create lasting relationships. Students need each other while in school.
Patricia Scales
I find that if I have a student that seems somewhat disengaged from the rest of the class I will try to find one student that he or she seems to have a connection to and have them work together.
I also will rotate students so that they get a chance to work with everyone individually thereby creating a connection with each student in the class.
This helps to build strong bonds with individual students as well as forming a team mentality.
Hi Shelley,
Students tend to enjoy group work. They can really learn a lot from each other.
Patricia Scales
This is true, as students are sometimes more engaged within a group discussion.
Hi Shelley,
Students really enjoy peer learning. Students can really help each other master various concepts in a course. Sometimes students pick up the concept easier from a student.
Patricia Scales
