Getting a class of thinkers to become more involved
So, I find that I am very extraverted. In some of my classes (usually the smaller ones) students are almosts forced to contribute and work together because there are only a few of them. Lately, in my larger classes I struggle to engage all of my students, particularly those who seems shy or just don't have a comment. I will generally ask them by name certain questions or for their opinions.
Any suggestions on how the engage the introverts in class?
Hi Benjamin,
Good strategies for getting students involved in the discussion process. They get to contribute in a number of different ways so each can find his/her comfort level within the class.
Gary
I tell my students that I want them to take notes during their reading of their assignments and to bring those notes in with tem to class. At the beginning of class I ask for questions that they may have written down in their notes. If there are no questions then I ask for volunteers to present about interesting topics from their readings. If there are no volunteers I randomly "volunteer" them.
I agree with Gary.
Group projects can get some fantastic results. It allows the students to work in a smaller environment before being pushed into the larger class.
I tend to stay away from sitting down presentations, and make students -- once they have gotten their project done in their group, present their information in front of the class.
It can be rough, but it is amazing how quickly they will adapt once they realize they have to do it and that they are up there with friends.
Hi Nicole,
I put my students into work/learning groups of 3-5. I give each student in the group an assignment that contributes to the group being successful. I have each student in the group present his/her work in a panel format. I use a panel (3-5 students) sitting in front of the class behind a table. They present for 3-5 minutes sitting down. The reason for the format is that by having 3-5 students sitting at the table my shy students are surrounded by other students, the spotlight isn't just on them. Sitting down means less spotlight, behind the table, less spotlight, and the time limit means they know exactly how much time they have to speak. All of these factors help the shy students to feel comfortable presenting and confident in the content they will be sharing. Generally after presentations like this my shy students start speaking up more in the general class discussions.
Gary
