Use-it-wisely cards
I like this method and will certainly try it out with my next batch of students when we start in Jan. I have a student right now who fits this profile and this will certainly help and also make the class fun, as well as giving other students a chance to voice their views.
Hi Stacey,
How do you normally handle your talkers?
Patricia
I agree that this method seems a bit childish. I would speak with them outside of class and make them an observer first before trying this method. My "talkers" are usually the younger students anyway and I don't think giving them cards like this would encourage adult behavior. And I would be hesitant to try to do this with an adult for fear that they would be insulted.
Great idea! In addition to the classroom, I could see using these cards in other settings as well, for example at PTA meetings or Cub Scout committee meetings. They help keep the chatty people quiet, so the meetings get done in a timely fashion, which makes everyone happy.
Hi George,
You treat your students like they are adults and that is how they should be treated. It is fine if you are not a fan of the use-it-wisely cards as long as you are fair to all, that is all that matters. I am sure your students are use to your style, and they have no complaints.
Patricia
I teach adults aged 25-50. This approach may seem childish to them - certainly doesn't fit my vision for adult learners. I limit my "Springbutts" by talking to them after class, and if that doesn't work, cutting them short, caling on them less, or stating publicly, "Let's hear from others in the class."
I chuckled when I read about the Use-It-Wise cards because a college professor used this strategy in a graduate course where the topic was organizational culture. The professor divided the class into groups of 5 students and wrote a discussion topic on the board that each group would talk about and then share the responses with the entire class. However, each student only had 5 pieces of paper. Each time a student commented on the discussion topic he/she had to throw away one piece of paper.
The goal of this activity was to have us think before speaking!
I am excited to try this method also. Some students are ready with every answer immediately, this will give others a chance too!!
Hi Bee Koon,
The cards are awesome! The work nicely!
Patricia
