It often helps if you show them, they do as lab group3-5 and then they do by themself this keeps all busy and helps the one who did not get it the first time.
Linda,
Consider restructuring the lab into groups with upperclassmen acting as group leaders. With a group structure in place all the time the fluctuation in class size will not be an issue when it occurs.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
One challenge in teaching a laboratory course is the amount of students with only 1 professor teaching. Whenever the class number exceeds safe levels I like to add an upperclassman or other faculty member to increase vigilance and offer more opportunity for students to be involved, not to mention a more safe environment. Equipment in sufficient quantity is another daunting challenge.
Frank,
Try letting students observe each other and making observations to each other.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
