Student answers
I have had a least one student in every class who tries to answer questions asked by another student. Usually they are correct with the answer but the student asking the question mentions to me that they would like the answer given by me not the other student. Eyes roll, darts fly every time that student jumps in to answer. It gets touchy because I want others to participate without having to deal with the know-it-all. I even resorted to handing the white board marker to that student and sitting down in a desk and telling her/him to go ahead and teach the class. They always back down. I know "passive aggressive". I'm not perfect. Any suggestions?
Hi Steve, Thanks for sharing a good strategy to use with the "know-it-all" student. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
Happens to us all. I allow this person to answer because I want everyone to feel free to answer. I always restate the question using their answer to expand on the point. Yes--I do speak privately with them after class and point out that while they are correct (or generally correct), I would like someone else to "have a chance" to answer. Part of the answer here could be found if you try to figure out why this student always seems to have to answer before anyone else--attention? appearance? to gain favor? or do they think its expected of them? Sometimes barking dogs are just nervous or afraid...
Hi Anthony, Excellent advice - thanks for sharing! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
I've had someone like that before. I tried to acknowledge the answer given, but then restate it with what I wanted the students to get out of it. I've also made light of it by preempting the answer by asking the person not to answer and call on someone else pointedly to answer. Approaching the person outside of class privately is still warranted. Passive aggression doesn't address the issue. Letting it go too long decreasaes your credibility, I think.
Hi Vicki, Have you spoken to this student outside of class?
Susan Polick
