Lisa,
Good strategy because it shows value to the students. You are listening and learning from them and they appreciate that even when their ideas cannot be implemented. They know you are focused on them and their input and this increases their engagement in the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
You show value by asking them to share their opinions. Frequently I make a point and ask, "Does anyone have something to add, or experience to share on this topic? In the career college many students bring multiple life experiences and prospectives. Their opinion on a subject at the right time can greatly enrich your lecture. It can be as if you planted them in the classrom to help substantiate the point you are making. They overwhelming shold be called on and thanked for their contribution.
One of the best ways to make a student feel that their opinion is not only important but valued is to simply listen to them actively. Wehn they have given their opinion and they are done, ask questions of them to clarify your understanding. If it is a good idea- implement it. If it is an idea that will not work, show the student why it won't work but appreciate the opinion. If their opinion has a valid point to it regarding the teacher, the teacher should reflect and then modify. I find listening to someone allows them to be heard.
lesson to them and make then share their opinions
Encouraging students to share their experiences and opinions in the classroom helps them know that their knowlege acquired from outside sources has value and application for their current course of study.
Denise,
Listening is a valuable teaching tool. Listening to students shows respect plus you gain all kinds of valuable information about what life experiences they are bringing to the class and how you can use those experiences as learning tools.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
As instructors we can show that students opinions are valued by paying attention and listening to them when they try to talk to us, whether it be ask our opinion, or just to act as a sounding board for their frustrations.
Vivian,
Student input is a valuable resource so we need to use it when we can, plus it does motivate students as you mention. It keeps them engaged for the duration of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Valuing and recognizing student opinions help empower, develop and motivate students learning and retention because you make them feel valued and important not only as a student, but as a person.
Letitia,
Listening is such a powerful learning tool for both students and instructors. Having more information about the students helps us to more accurately target our instruction.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with Jim treat students how you would like to be treated. Make sure you listen to what the students is saying and not blow them off and appear uninterested like you r time is too valauble for small talk. It is important to get feedback and suggestions from students.
Robert,
You make a very good point about listening. When we are listening we are learning, so we need to listen more. Great advice for all instructor especially those just starting out.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
First is to let the student finish. As a student, I remember I was cut off before I was able to finish my thought. Second, is making sure that I understand the student’s opinion. Then use the opinion on other areas of the lecture.
Robert,
Another would be to have appoint students as discussion leaders so they get to share their knowledge about a topic while leading the class. They have to earn this position through effort and as a result they value being selected. This helps them to contribute to the class even more.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
A very simple method is to acknowledge their participation or by asking them for specific feedback. As an example, saying to students, that is a goo answer, can anyone think of others?
Andre,
Drawing them out helps them to verbalize the new content they are acquiring. They get to explain and discuss it while storing it in their working memory.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Allyson,
This way learning is a two way street. Everyone benefits when respect is earned and rapport developed. It is at this point the sharing process has value.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
One of the methods that I use to assist students in understanding their value is to have them expound on something that they might have casually mentioned. My favorite saying is "say more about that."
By taking into consideration student opinions you can learn a lot and get to know your students on a more personal level as well.
Value students by listening to them will add to the learning experience in the classroom. Creating a classroom environment that supports a climate where students voices are heard and valued is important.
