How to manage the Dominant student
How do I control the class learning environment during a time where as a class they are covering an assignment together and the Dominant student takes over with questions and also answers.
Without being rude myself to this student how do I get a handle on that?
I encounter this type of individual in almost every class I teach. I have discovered that the most effective way to deal with them is to put them in situations where they can assist some of the other students in group session labs or exercise assignments. That helps the other students learn from someone in their shoes and relieves me to focus on helping others. It also motivates the dominate student on what it takes to teach others.
I like to say, "Now that I have heard from this students who else knows an answer." I have to do this with my eight graders. I had one lady in my college course that would start stories about the topic and they would go on forever. She was so sweet so I felt if I interupted her I would hurt her feelings. I would have to jump in quickly with, "That is what I am talking about good job. Anyone else have something they want to add." Just to end it on a positive note.
I've pulled that student aside and talked to them about it. I currently have one of these students in my class. She and I have talked about it and have agreed that she has to let her classmates talk. She is to count to 20 before answering any questions, even follow up questions on a response she has given. This has given time to the other students and I am starting to get other students to respond. Some times I also call on specefic students.
Hi Brandi,
You do not want to ever be rude to a student, but sometimes you do have to be firm and stern, yet professional.
Patricia Scales
Patricia, I am not sure we would be able to get away with being "rude" to a student where I work.
In the case of the "know-it-all" student I usually follow up with "That's a great answer. Why?" and continue to repeat this until they finally wear out and give up.
Hi Doretha,
Sometimes you have to be rude to students. I would pull this student out of class swiftly and quickly to have a firm talk to let he/she know if the behavior does not change, he/she will be removed from the class.
Patricia Scales
