I engage my silent wall flower students by speaking to them directly, and ensuring that they understand that their opinion or comment is as valid as anyone else's. I have my students read a media event every morning and tie it into the teaching. This allows the shy ones to contribute and learn how to speak in public in a protected class room environment.
Then they are ready to present a research topic at a later date with more confidece.
Hi Cathleen,
Great way to try to interact with silent students. At least you know that you are making the connection because of the nod.
Patricia Scales
I have found that some silent students find their "voices" in online activities. If the institution uses classroom tools like blackboard, then guided prompts will sometimes help to break them out of their shells. I am hesitant to force a student to verbally participate, though. Might this just create more problems for someone who is especially shy or socially awkward?
I do not ignore them. When I am speaking, I make eye contact with them which I feel includes them into the topic of discussion without pressuring them to answer me directly. After several times of 'involving' and acknowledging them quite often the student will begin to respond, even if it is only a nod. I find that so amazing!
I find that humor usually works, especially when a silent student responds with an incorrect answer to a question. I will respond with an answer that is so off the charts that it causes the class to stop and think. If I can get the silent student to laugh, he is usually more open the next time I call on him.
Hi Tabitha,
You have to give the silent student a role so that participation is encouraged.
Patricia Scales
You can get them involved by splitting them up into smaller groups to work with others . Maybe even give them each a task to complete in the group so they just don't sit there.
To help students I provide them with a list of some of the questions I am going to ask in class the following day. This gives the shy student and the student who has concerns regarding how they will be received in the class an opportunity to prepare and practice their responses. I check with students before class to see if they need any additional help. I complement them on their work and indicate I am sure that the class would be interested in what they have to say. Usually, the student wishes to share.
In many cultures remaining silent is a very common practice. I find that these students will eventually become more vocal in class but it takes time.
Hi Kristine,
I like to involve my silent students in leadership roles so that they feel a part of the class and to get them actively involved.
Patricia Scales
i also speak to each student to find out how they feel about class participation. i do use small groups, it works well. Some of my silent students would rather read thru homework assignments so they feel prepared and not 'put on the spot' plus they feel they are participating
Hi John,
I like how you get all students involved with the reading so that the silent students are more encouraged to participate.
Patricia Scales
I have had several silent students in my class. I try to give every students equal time and assign small group activities, which encourages these students to interact. I also spend individual time with each student to see how they are doing and get a better feel for the student. This also helps them to open up and be more comfortable. I am proud to say our class works well to encourage and help each other. They challenge and motivate each other. This has helped with everything from daily small personal trials, more work, baby sitting problems, to larger problmes such as dealing with cancer.
In accounting class I have the students take turns in order reading exercise questions, going around the class. This invites them to contribute and on a structured, "safe" basis.
I also ask students on the first day if they would like to start a business?
I have them fill out a card that asks the name of the proposed business, the start-up date, the estimated capital required, the type of ownership, and how soon they expect to make a profit, and what licenses are required. This info give me a basis for conversation and the possibility of talking about competition in their various industries.
I know I was a silent student and was mortified when called on in class because I had a fear of speaking in front of others. The best way I experienced was when I was assigned to groups. This way I got to know other students and before I knew it they were all friends so I was comfortable speaking up in front of them.
Presentation of a topic in front of the class could be helpful in practicing of public speaking as well as research/ knowledge.
Hi Maggie,
Awesome! It is good for silent students to be in the lime light sometimes. These students can have very special talents and great intellect abilities as well.
Patricia Scales
Hi Ellis,
I have seen both shy/silent students who are superior students academically! We can change a student, we just have to encourage them to become more involved.
Patricia Scales
In a nursing course, I use small group "learning team" in-class assignments. One example is when the group is given a case study and must develop a care plan for the client. Having the "silent" student lead the group through the process can provide the safe environment for the student to "shine."
Are we confusing shy and silent? The silent student could just as well be a superior student who may not relish elective participation. Certainly one must, as always, make an adequate assessment before initiating any intervention.
