Engaging Students
What should be done in my view is to engage the student by asking questions. How did they arrive at a specific solution, did they think about other possibilities. The idea is to have them think for themsleves and defend reasoned responses.
Marshall,
Yes, this is just what my middle school math teacher used to do when he required me to "show all of my work." This is an excellent technique.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think this is good also. I believe that when I ask questions I get better responses...also I get more responses in general. That is, I can give an instruction and I hope most students get it. But when I ask them for specific responses, then I find out if they really did understand.
James,
This is a tried and true method. It goes right back to Socrates. Excellent point. Thanks.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Agreed, Marshall. Questions are important. So, in my view, are discussions. Sometimes students wonder about the practical value of academics in their professional futures. I often initiate conversations about ways in which the skills they are learning will be applicable.
