Use It Wisely Cards
I really like this idea as a way to have all students participate while taming down the over-sharers. I'd really like to hear from others who have used them and how it worked out.
I agree, Justin. There are too many cons/concerns that outweigh the benefits.
I think this technique can be somewhat limiting. This seems like an issue of classroom management. It is up to the instructor to regulate the participation in their classroom. I don't feel that this technique would work for my adult students. I do like your creativity.
I think that is a great idea. I am a little skeptical about the cards because I don't want to discourage beneficial comments/questions but still want to control the over-zealous students. I think its a great idea to have them write down remaining questions- that would be a great way to have discussions (via Blackboard or Twitter) after class, too.
Hi Rich,
You fully understand! It is elementary, but those who have tried it, love it.
Patricia
This is a very creative and practical solution to the expressed dilemma. However, I have lingering concerns that prevent my endorsement of this suggestion. The first involves subjecting the masses to restrictions needed only for the few. The second has to do with creating offense to adult students. This technique seems more appropriate for an elementary school classroom than a career college environment. Am I misunderstanding something?
Hi Melissa,
I like your creativity with utilizing the cards. Great way to review!
Patricia
I like this idea, but I also share your concern. I thought of maybe using the following solution. Each student would be given so many cards at the beginning of class. However, if the student uses all of his or her cards and still has questions at the end of the class, they can write down those questions before leaving class. I can then take them home, read them and address them the next day as part of a review of yesterdays class.
I agree. I also have mixed feelings about this. I do believe it would limit the amount of time taken up by students that have "been there and done everything" but I think I could use this for comments only and maybe not so much as the questions. I would be afraid that a very good question could possibly go unanswered because they ran out of cards.
But It has made me start thinking about how to use this effectively.
I have mixed feelings about this technique. I understand that it will curb the over zealous, I-have-an-opinion-about-everything student, but don't you run the risk of squashing that comment that was insightful, thought provoking and absolutely brilliant? Even if it was from the over-sharer?
I agree. I had an over zealous student that would speak over all the students and I think that would have really curbed his enthusiasm.
