Answering your own questions too soon: underachievers.
The module mentioned that teachers often give the correct response too soon after they ask the question. More so with slow learners. I think the reason is so that that slow learner does not get embarrassed due to a long delay when it will become obvious the slow learner does not know the answer.
Bob,
You are quite right and I'm glad that you understand the importance of wait time. I use probing when students are still hesitant by breaking the question into smaller parts or even giving clues in the questions.
Judy Mohammed
Because you already know the answer, it is far too easy to not wait long enough for a response, correct or otherwise. Some classes are eager to answer questions and others seem like they would rather have their teeth extracted using rusty pliers. This is just one the many pitfalls you face as an instructor and it is very important skill to develop because without proper response you will never be quite sure if the information you presented was understood.
Keri,
I give out participation points also, but to everyone. I also walk around the classroom and talk to those around me directly.
Judy Mohammed
I was always one of those students that loved to get the answer right and 1st. Now, as a teacher I have had to come up with creative ways to encourage others to answer and to be PATIENT. I sometimes ask someone from a different row (like the back 2 that don't talk much) to answer or I give out "participation cards" (2 per day) for students to answer questions and get participation credit but then they only get two per day so eventually the other students start answering!
John,
We all have had to struggle with wait time because it is so easy for us to give the answer.
Judy Mohammed
I need to work on waiting longer to give answers. Some classes do need more time to respond than others. It usually is the second lecture before I hit timing for a class.
Tammy,
This is so true. I myself had to make an effort to use wait time; it is so easy to just give the answers. We want to challenge our students to think critically.
Judy Mohammed
Chris,
I try to give everyone the same amount of time to respond. I can usually gauge the "reaction" time after a few classes and can then plus/minus my time to give the correct answer if no one responds. I've found that if you continually answer the questions for them, they will eventually expect you to always provide the answer and will thus not be apt to answer.
It will take a little practice to give enough time to everyone but you will get the hang of it and not jump the gun so to speak.
Chris,
While this is true, you might just be surprised at the answer you may get if the student is given time to gather his/her thoughts. Sometimes, instead of responding you might try giving hints or probing to help the student. Using wait time takes some getting used to in the classroom, but it works.
Judy Mohammed
