Autonomy
I feel it is absolute that adults receive a level of independence in the classroom. For many of my students it might have been twenty years since someone told them what to do, how to do it and when to do it. I think that providing a decent level of autonomy can inadvertently induce security, which is a good practice.
Bill, games are a great way to get students involved.
James Jackson
I usually have some students write questions for other students and vice versa to have a light competitive but informative game. Like a "jeopardy" format.
Kristina, great comment. Be the life coach they never had and assist them in the process of decision making. Some students simply do not know how to be critical thinkers, creative thinkers, or problem solvers so this is part of our jobs as instructors.
James Jackson
WILLIAM, students selecting their own partners can be a very effective technique as long as you feel the desired learning outcomes are being achieved. Assigning lab partners can also be successful when some thought goes into the pairings. Ther are many paths to the goal of your learning outcomes.
James Jackson
It is important to limit options for students who may have not yet developed autonomy. Having to make many decisions on one's own can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming. But, if you allow students to choose one of 2 or 3 given options, it will provide initial guidance and aid in the development of autonomy.
My classes are encouraged to pick their own lab partners and work groups. This makes them feel more in control and confident.
Christopher, autonomy is great for those students ready to be self-directed. For other students however, autonomy may require additional training and a dedicated effort to create small winning scenarios that will build confidence in the student.
James Jackson
