Introverts
I work with cosmetology students and this is, of course, a field that requires effective communication. I have a student that is an extreme introvert and I was wondering do you have any advice on how to get her to be more open. She does better in small groups but how do I give her a role where she can take the lead?
William,
this is a good strategy. I also like to take the time (if I can) to explain the different ways that individuals share ideas as some people like more time to really process & ponder before responding. This can help in appreciating diversity.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I've tried solving this problem by putting extroverts into one group and introverts into another. The first group sometimes gets into contests for dominance, but the second group seems to benefit by being better able to communicate with other shy people.
I have a question about this: I have often observed that, even in small groups, extroverts will dominate discussions and not allow introverts opportunity to express their ideas. For me, it is the extroverts that are more challenging: how can one convince [some of] them to pause long enough to listen to someone else?
One method I've used is to create mixed introvert-extrovert teams for projects, and then designate an introvert as the group leader. Many introverts make great leaders, and as long as they're comfortable in their knowledge of the tasks at hand, they can rise to the challenge beautifully.
Mario,
this is true & this can also help the extroverts to appreciate that introverts are not stupid or don't have anything to say, they just process information differently & interact differently.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
when trying to put students into groups and you are have to keep in mind that there are introverts and extroverts, i typically put different types of learning styles together so that they compliment each other and it will teach those who have a problem sharing their thoughts to others. it helps them to start sharing.which will be necessary for them to be able to communacate out in the work force .
Justin,
this can be a great way of encouraging those students to really engage in the dialogue of both feedback & in the group process.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I encourage my students to get up once in awhile to see what others are working on and give their input. Im next to the students as they give their feedback and find that I need to help the more introverted students along with giving their input but once they feel they've helped someone else they usually open up. After a dialogue is established between the introverted student and the other students forming groups is more productive.
Sandra,
yes, this is a great way to get students involved & especially to do it in such a way that doesn't single them out & make them standout from the group.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
My personal feeling would be to find the strengths that this person has. When you have a project/lesson that would involve those strengths enlist this individual's help in some way that would give her the lead. Tell her how much you are counting on her help and assistance. Whether you have a chat with the student about this before the class might be something you would want to conside.
Mary Ellen ,
yes, we should encourage all our students to share when they feel comfortable doing so, but not force it (except in certain situations).
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Dr. Myers,I definitely agree with you.I also found that by not pushing them,they eventually feel more comfortable and feel they have something to bring to the table also.
Lauren ,
this is a good question. I would suggest not trying her to be more open. Introverts are not quiet because they haven't been given the opportunity to speak or they're shy, they're quiet because that's their personality. Introverts do better in smaller groups. Regarding taking the lead, I would encourage her privately to do so when she feels ready & help the other students not to confuse leadership with extroversion.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
