Student groups
I have learned from experience that there are always a few students who do not participate in class. By making group projects part of the curriculum, I can help involve them.
I agree. Many times students are intimidated by the unfamiliar course content and become disengaged. Putting students into groups helps me to work with student one on one. When I have help them to understand new conepts, their confidence begins to grow!
Many instances permit me to coordinate time with each student to assist with problems on the board. I break the students up into varied groups of two to work on problems on the board as a team. This greatly assist in moving the individuals around, and they also make new friends and support groups.
I have found that students who do not participate generally are not sure of themselves, have low self esteem, are afraid of being embarassed, and have low social skills. For some students praise has never been offered to them. People are geneerally gregarious and by putting students in groups the group acts as a buffer allowing them to take baby steps in the learning process. I have found that this method reduces anxiety and allows students to feel important (they were chosen to be in a group)and for the most part this simple gesture of acceptance and belonging promotes sharing of ideas hence, learning occurs.
Best Regards,
Doreen Giglio
