Asking Questions
Prompting students with questions, I believe, gets them thinking—yes—but more important—makes. them active participants in the learning process. Any question is worthwhile, as long as it relates to the subject matter for that class’s agenda. Open-ended questions are best—but I find that even questions that prompt an obvious response are effective as well. Anything that will get an otherwise silent student to become actively involved—to break the ice so to speak—is a valuable technique in classroom management.
I believe the most important thing to think about when asking students questions is to make sure you are open to his or her anwser without making them feel uncomfortable in front of the class. Think how you would feel when you were called upon in class. Where you egar or shy?
Good point. I do remember well how uncomfortable it was to be called upon when I was unprepared to answer--that is, to provide the answer the professor expected to hear. From my own experience, I know those students who avert their eyes don't want to be called upon. I don't ever pressure a student to participate--but try to create an atmosphere of ease in the classroom, so that, in time, even the shy students feel comfortable to speak up--or look up.
Hi Joseph - You are obviously a very caring instructor! As I am sure you know, there is a special sense of accomplishment we experience when that shy student suddenly raises her hand. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career! Susan
Asking questions is very important, but one of the first questions I have learned to ask is "Who read the assignment?" If you don't have a relevant starting point, it doesn't matter how well you ask the questions, there will be no response or discussion. It encourages honesty from the students as well, but can make your entire classroom plan go down quickly. When I find that happening, I provide a list for the students at the end of class to prepare them for the next class so that we can discuss the material collectively rather than "spoon feeding" content.
Hi Barbara - I like the idea of the "list" to prepare for the next class. It gives your students points of reference as they read. They know what you consider important and will look for those points and hopefully absorb additional information as well! Best wishes - Susan
I agree. Getting students involved keeps it from getting boring.
Questions are great learning tools and I really think that it is the only way to connect theory to "real life" experience.
Hi Peter- Thanks for your post to the forum. I agree that questioning is an integral part of teaching and learning. As you mention, the sort of questions that help students "connect the dots" from theory to application are especially important. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
open ended qquestions always works for me
