Maximizing student participation

THE usual classroom interaction model is that of the teacher asking the class a general question and a knowledgeable student raising a hand to respond to that question. This model however has its failings because this question-and-answer strategy is not very effective in engaging learners who tend to hesitate or are reluctant. Therefore, teachers should not rely entirely on this model for participation or assessment.

The ideal classroom dynamics should cater to all types of learners. Opportunity for participation should be given to each type of learner. As a teacher, you can find other ways to encourage participation and make ways for students to feel good about their contribution.

Blurting out answers or speaking out loud is not the only means to participate in class. There are other activities and strategies wherein which students can participate, including nontraditional assessments such as creating portfolios. Provide students the chance to exhibit mastery of the lesson content in diverse or varied ways.

Another strategy would be to allow students who have special skills to put them to use to demonstrate understanding of the class material. Students who gravitate to kinesthetic activities may express their understanding of its theme through dance or drawing, whichever they may be comfortable with.

Know that getting students to engage in group activities can be hugely beneficial. It encourages team work and mutual support; it can bring a competitive dimension to learning which can motivate students to strive harder for results and, probably most significant of all, it exposes them to other people’s thought processes and problemsolving abilities which helps them to develop their own reasoning skills. This sort of collaborative learning teaches students to think more deeply and laterally simply because the answer isn’t supplied by the teacher or by the textbook.

It is important that as teachers we not only become focused or interested in students’ learning, but in our students as persons. Remember that he moment students feel that teachers genuinely care about them, they will be more willing to share their thoughts and skills in class.