Silent students
Understanding silent students is important. Insecurity and shyness are the 2 main common reasons why students are silent. It's important to try to help the student feel comfortable in the classroom and let them know they are important and their questions and comments are encouraged.
Throughout high school and college, I was the "silent student" so I have a great deal of understanding when I receive these students in my class. I admit, though, that it is difficult to gauge their level of understanding and I don't usually have a good feel for them until after their first quiz or assignment. I agree with most of the suggestions in the course, including group work and attempting to get to know them on a personal level. Those would have worked for me as a student and I've had success using those techniques as an instructor.
