When I am looking for the most effective type of question for a particular class, I start with open-ended, and have learned that closed-ended questions (1-3 possible correct answers) can help focus the final points. The mix of student interest and ability in the subject being taught is important in determining how questions should be asked to gain their interest and participation. On days when student interest is clearly waning, I will do something fun or somewhat off topic, but ultimately return to the goal for the day's class....Mark
I have created a game where students select from a hat, a question that is answered by the group. This method allows the student not to become uncomfortable if they do not know the answer.
As a technical school instructor, on the first day of the class, I ask my students to write down 5 questions about the course that we are going to learn about. This breaks the ice for some quieter students who may have been too reserved to open up in class.
Hi Gabrielle-Thanks for a great suggestion that aids in getting students to do the readings. I larger classes you can have the students prepare 3 or more questions but only ask them for one that has not been previously asked. Best wishes- Susan
When I assign chapters for students to read, I sometimes require them to write down 3 questions they have from the chapter. When they come to class, they have to share their questions with the rest of the class. I have found this successful in engaging all my students in class discussions. I'm not sure if this would work with larger class sizes, but it seems to work with small classes.
Hi Michele- Thanks for your post to the forum. As hyou mention, asking students to relate the topic at hand to their own experiences makes for some great discussion! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Hi John - Thanks for your post to the forum. As you mention, while working in small teams, shy students can be drawn out and made to feel more comfortable. Great work! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Questioning techniques should be varied, from open ended to one specific answer. Add varying depth of questioning as well as tagging answers where students build upon the last student's answers are also highly effective. No matter what the approach, the main thing is to get the students actively participating and feeling comfortable enough to ask questions.
I like to group students into teams of 3 to 4 and give a case study with open ended questions. We then discuss it team by team. This way, a student who may be shy or not normally contribute can feed off of students who do and become more comfortable from not only a confidence standpoint, but a peer comfort level also.
Open ended questions always seem to get responses and students involved. I have also found that having them think about a similar circumstance that they witnessed or were involved in to draw on their own experiences to make the topic relevant and/or get them engaged in discussion.
Hi Michael- Thanks for your post to the forum. It really is interesting how many different ideas/solutions the different groups will come up with! Best wishes - Susan
I find that dividing the class into small groups to work on scenarios designed to illustrate specific aspects of course material makes it easier for students to ask questions. I can then state the questions myself for all groups to consider and to respond with possible solutions or maybe other questions.
I ask them to describe in their own words what they have learned. I think the best way to see if someone has learned is to check their comprehension.
Thanks Susan.
Once the students get engaged in the conversation the class goes into overdrive. The trick is getting them started. That depends on your audience. Its never the same. And that requires being able to shift and use other ideas to get their attention.
Hi Charles - Thanks for your post to the forum. I agree that especially when it is a long class, we need to change pace frequently to keep our students engaged. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I have used hollywood squares, 100,000 pyramid; etc. It is nice to make the change up.
I like the rapid fire questioning; I feel it helps to keep some of my "sleeping" students awake LOL
Any technique that gets their attention is worthy.
But sometimes rapid fire questions gets the class going. The old change of pace technique. Works well for longer class sessions as a diversion.
I,too, have used Jeopardy in class. I usually use it for review before an exam. They really seem to enjoy it. It is their preferred way to review for tests.
