Games and competition
I like your comment about competition being a part of human nature. I use a variety of games in the classroom, and it's during those games where I see the most involvement among the students.
Alexander,
Not had that problem with my college students. When teaching high school students I located them off to the side and went on with the games. The rest of the class was having so much fun these students started to join in once they realized that they could have a good time and learn something as well.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
What about those students that are not willing to participate in any games or competitions?
Traci,
I use learning groups as well in my classes with the results you describe. I think they are an effective way of getting everyone involved in the discussion and making class contributions.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I completely agree. I have found I like to do teams. In Veterinary medicine I am constantly reminding my students they can not do it alone. Use your teammates, work together, listen and help out where ever you may be needed. So I mix up the teams often to allow them to learn to work with a variety of people. Students are competative so it truly is a way to get them invoved and engaged.
Tom,
Thank you for the kind words. Games and competition really does ramp up the students. These are some of our best times as a learning community.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
