participation
encouraging all students the importance of the correct type of participation.
In my class, participation is based on questions and group activity. The groups change every week to give all students, talkers and non talkers the opportunity to join in the discussion.
Hi Heather,
I use the same format. Small learning groups really help to engage all students. I have found as you probably have that once they get talkative in the small groups they will often start to contribute on a regular basis in the full class. They get a boost in their self confidence once they see they have something to say.
Gary
I like to use small group discussions when students won't participate individually in class. I always find it amazing how they talk freely with their peers but are sometimes intimidated when talking to or in front of the whole class.
I've found that many students don't feel "involved" because they're either shy or somewhat uninterested in the course content. Walking around and speaking with the students directly, rather than across the classroom, seems invaluable in getting to know them personally and feel welcome.
Are you discussing respect? If so, you are correct, getting students to interact with respect is very important.
Doing a variety of activities during the first several days of a new class that encourages participation helps alleviate any fears they may have.
Yes, positive. Create an non-threatening atmosphere. Use open-ended questions at the beginning of a discussion. Encourage "add-on" responses. Prepare a listing of the "best" replies. Evaluate the listing.
Silly? Maybe! How structured do you want this to be? I think it depends on where the student is in their career with the career college. Is he or she just beginning? If so then this makes a lot sense. However, if he or she is at the end of their tenure as a student. More than likely it can be assumed that each person knows the expectations for "participation" especially after attending a few other classes within the area of study. There is a fine line of repeating certain subjects and it may be better to teach them something else that could be used with that time as it is valuable.
Hi Karla,
Your last point is a good one for instructors to consider. By setting the boundaries of participation the students know the expectations of contributing through discussions and the asking of questions. They need to know also that they will be called on at different times throughout the lecture session so they need to be prepared at all times.
Gary
I constantly remind my students of the importance of participation, and always try to create a non threatening environment so that they feel comfortable doing so. But, I think the instructor needs to set the parameters as to what that participation should and should not include.
I feel that if the participation in class starts out as a positive experience, that the class will be "more comfortable" to teach.
Hi Bill,
How do you encourage students to have the correct type of participation?
Thanks.
Gary
