I try to work with silent students more on a one to one basis, but sometimes I feel that I might be giving them more attention then other students.
I have taken the "quiet" student for the "shy" student, but after having taken this module, I feel like I can get more communication out of them by using the check off method. I will keep track of MY involvement with them during class. I can't wait to try this out tomorrow!
As a former silent student I can tell you that I did not want to be drawn into the conversation and wanted to be left alone. Having said that I am very cognizant of these students and my approach is to talk to them quietly before or after class to get a sense of their skill and understanding of the material. I can then throw them some easier questions or solicit feedback in an unthreatening way with the hopes that they realize that it is okay to participate (or not) on their terms.
Hi Sandra,
Yes. No one seems to be put on blast because everyone is participating. Good idea!
Patricia
I often have students read out loud. This can provide opportunity for the student speaking in a low tone,to be asked to speak a little louder without calling attention to her directly.
I have a silent student but she is extremely knowledgeable. She just moved to the states and did dentistry in Jamaica. When she does answer, her tone is a hair above a whisper. How do I encourage her to speak up? I've asked her to repeat herself assuring her that her answer is correct but her voice remains low.
I usually ask questions about lecture from the previous day during demo. It helps to see what the students are actually retaining.
I think it is a mistake to assume they are not involved. I was never a talker in class but I always got straight A's. Leave them alone unless the grades suffer.
There are many of my students that do not like to talk in class. I have small group discussions so that they can feel more comfortable in talking. Also during this time, I like to walk around the room listening to each group and asking questions to confirm understanding. This is when I find the shy students are more likely to talk with me.
I have also found that some students simply lack confidence. When I indentify this as a problem I have actually been known to speak to the students and tell them that in the next class period I will ask them a question then give them the exact question and the answer as well. In other words I toss them a meatball or two. Interestingly, it has been successful.
Hi Susie,
We have to try to converse with silent students as much as possible. I've noticed, the more comfortable they are around you, the more they tend to open up.
Patricia
I have found that talking to silent students before and after class makes them more comfortable with me. Once they trust me they tend to be more open to responding in the class. I also try to always be supportive of students answers to a question whether it is the answer I am looking for or not.
This seems to be a challenge in many class environments, based on the students personality, lack of knowledge about the subject, and just being afraid to say the wrong thing. I have found that sharing my personal experience involves them in a discussion. I also pose questions to each student that are not related to the class subject, eg. passionate about sports teams, food and cooking, music, dress, and any other subjects that the students may ber passionate about. Once I have found that button, I engage the student on that level to incorporate the subject that is being taught in class. I feel that when the student can relate a passionate answer to something that they love, it opens up a dialoge on other topics making them feel more comfortable in the classroom.
Patricia,
The reading suggests breaking the class into smaller groups. This tactic does work in many situations. If this method is not practical, I chat with those students in a friendly manner before class and then involve them during the seminar. I offer positive reinforcement and encouragement. Many times, these are the brightest students but insecure. In the case of the uncertain student who is quiet to to his lack of knowledge of the material, I offer the leadoff question to him and then use eye contact to after the followup question is answered by a classmate. This is part of a conditioning process to bring the quiet student into the class discussions and occurs over time.
Greg
Hi Sandra,
By following this practice, the silent student does not feel out of place because every student has to do it.
Patricia
I routinely do roundtable type discussion and interactions, whereby each and every student gives their opinion and feedback. It can be limited, however it encourages everyone to have their say and provide input.
Karen,
I too have had experience with the same cultural group. You are on the right track with making them feel comfortable in a smaller group setting I think. John Eliassen
The most "shy" students I have are native americans, especially women. Being the center of attention by answering a question in front of the class is not part of their culture. It is very difficult for them to make eye contact, answer questions or even speak up for attendance. Respect is the key with independent work and very small groups.
I think the first thing an instructor needs to do is to identify those who are silent. Sometimes they just disappear and a few weeks go by and you don't even know who they are. You have to consciously
make a concerted effort to focus on them and to take the time to bring them in. It's easy just to focus on the students who participate.
Hi Frederick,
I like the idea of starting simple to get the shy students involved. This is great psychology to utilize. I am sure it is an effective tactic.
Patricia
