I usually find the same students do tend to answer the questions so I will let them answer. I then ask for someone else that hasn't answered yet to share their thoughts or feelings on the topic. It seems like some students just need a little more time to build up the courage to participate and don't want to be the first ones speaking. I do try and praise them for their efforts and be encouraging even if they weren't quite on target.
Ask a question you are sure that student can answer. Call on that student and then give the question so they are more prepared.
Hi Shannon- Thanks for your post to the forum. Pairing up students to answer questions is a great idea! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
If I have students that do not seem to respond well to question-and-answer sessions, I ask the students to pair up to add to the discussion. This strategy seems to get the non-responsive student to be more involved in discussions. I've given my students a topic, paired them up, and asked each pair to write down at least five facts about the topic. I then ask the class questions and everyone participates. I think the more interaction I have with my students, the more they seem to reply in a positive manner.
It makes for a good class discussion
I will sometime ask a question related to a real world activity that applies to the lesson. It helps me relate the lesson to a familiar life activity that my bring the question into perspective.
Hi LaToya- Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes using your roster insures that everyone gets called on in a fair way. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I have found going in order around the classroom is an effective way to include each student in the question and answer portions of class. It gives students time to think about their responses and listen to others. I do allow one pass to students too.
What I like to do in my class is to use my attendance sheet and randomly call names from it and ask questions. Everybody name gets called at least once.
Hi Cecelia - Not sure exactly what you mean, but I would probably rephrase the inappropriate question in an appropriate way and then answer it.
Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
How would you handle inappropriate questions that would still pertain to the topic discussion?
I tend to ask a very simple question to build their confidence. If confidence is not the issue then perhaps speaking to them after class would be necessary.
Hi Kay - Thanks for your post to the forum. Enabling your students to be more confident in answering questions is so important! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Hi Linda - Thanks for your post to the forum. Scenario based assignments or questions are great for getting students to apply the concepts that they are learning. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I use critical thinking technique my lectures. If a student is off base on an answer to a question; I add in a scenario, which will reinforce the correct answer.
Great idea. I do the same thing. When some do not want to participate, I make initially make them comfortable by asking them questions I jnow they have the answer for. Afterwards, they feel more confident.
Hi Mary - This idea certainly makes sure that students know that there will always be a possibility that they will be called on. Susan
I have all the students names in a jar and I randomly pull a name and ask the question. This ensures that all will get a question and they will participate. It has turned to them sometimes asking for help and then the next named person has to assist. This also allows for variety in who they work with.
I think this is an excellent non-intimidation method for insuring everyone shares their ideas.. It also may serve to limit those who 'dominate' a discussion period.
Hi Evelyn - I like that there is interaction between the admin observers and instructors at your school! It does send a great message to your students. Too often students just fill out evaluation forms on their instructors without ever knowing what happens to that info. Susan
