Always give the student your undivided attention when they are speaking, never shoot them down, thank them for sharing.
Travis,
So true and something we need to remember. Looking through the eyes of our students helps us to remember we were once there as well and then adjust our approach to reflect the needs of our current group of students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
One of the most important things to remember is where they are now, we were once too.....
Donna,
So important for students to know. Each student is a valued individual and that you are willing to help that individual be successful if he or she will put forth the effort needed in the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Every student is important and I stress in my class that there is never a dumb question nor a dumb answer. It is always that what one student asks is the exact question that another student is wanting to ask but one either doesnt know how to word the question or two is too embarsswed to ask it.
Freda,
Good tip. Looking away sends a very clear message to that overtalkative student for sure.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is important to make eye contact and listen to students. I liked that you mentioned how ineffective it is for the instructor to look away form the student who is speaking and shuffle papers....but shuffling papers is a good way to end the discussion with an overtalkative student.
Carla,
I agree and I let them know I don't know but together we will find the answers to their questions. This results in a learning experience for all of us.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think some times we as instructors don't want to loose face with our students and therefore don't want them to ever know "we're not sure" of something. I believe we all learn from each other and our students aren't any different.
I ask as many questions as possible. Some students opinions are insightful, funny, wrong, etc... It gives a break from just lecturing and can start a class discussion to bring everyone back on topic.
Try having the students put dowm new opinions on index cards review them and if any way possible try to give them a try.Discuss a students opinion with them do not just say I will talk about that with you some other time unless there is a very good reason.
Terry,
This is a good method to follow because it shows you value the experiences your students bring to class. This is the foundation for respect.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I ask my student for their experiences in the field and listen and use their responses as teaching moments
Holly,
Listening to students is one of the most valuable forms of support you can provide them. Knowing you are listening and that you value their input helps students to stay engaged and focused on being successful. In addition they respect you for your efforts and this is so important for an instructor to have.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
By seeking first to understand their perspective, you demonstrate empathy and active listening. Also, acknowledge and rephrase what the student is saying to show that you understood their point.
Stacy,
The value of listening is tremendous. You are showing respect to your students by listening to them and then making adjustments if possible. If not possible they will respect the fact you listened to them. This becomes a win win for everyone.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Danny,
Good way to increase the value of the content in relation to student perception. The more they can integrate the information into their minds and see application the more relevancy they see to what is being taught.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I listen carefully and if their opinion is such that i feel an improvement will result, i make the change.! (as long as it doesnt negatively impact my course)
When possible, I try to find methods to entwine student opinions and experiences into the classroom. The level of interest by way of open-eyed attention is the first thing an instructor notices... just by bringing in student related insight.
Larry,
Discussions like this are an important part of the learning process and they need to be programed into the lessons. Good suggestion and one we instructors need to remember.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
