One of the pros of having smaller class sizes is that everyone is visible and relatively close to the instructor. I definitely work to make eye contact with all my students because the size allows for this and I can engage students who space out a little more easily.
I really appreciated the information on center-stage students because I have had a few of those since beginning teaching. It gave me some good ideas for the future, such as having cards to limit the number of comments students can make or giving them a task that will occupy their time somewhat.
I really like the idea of talking cards. Allows all students to have time to speak
I like the idea of giving 5 cards to students to reduce all of the repetitive questions or nonsense questions.
Learning and applying various strategies to every student situation is important in managing and providing a positive classroom environment conducive to learning.
How to deal with the "center state" student was greatly beneficial. I always struggle with trying not to discourage their attentiveness and willingness to discuss topics.
Never thought of using a turns to speak card issue approach to containing overly talkative students and balancing the number of speaking opportunities with less Verbally involved students. I may have to pilot this approach in one of my courses soon. Thank you for the suggestions.
The number one cause for students not being engaged in the classroom or not paying attention, etc. is the instructor and the way the situation is being handled. You must first evaluate that you have done everything you can do to engage and motivate them. Once you have done that, you can then determine a course of action to get the student on track. External pressures often affect the students' performance as well. Determining your part and whether or not external pressures are having an effect, you can then begin working on specific strategies to get the student on track.
I like the idea of calling cards to limit the outbursts of my spotlight students
i learned that often times looking inward and strategizing can mitigate student behavior not conducive to learning
I like the idea of use it or lose it cards.
Don't let the center stage student answer all the questions. Give them "observer " role and they can only speak when they are asked to
Be wary of the students who give a lot of compliments.
One of the things that I learned is to set expectations for the students. This way the student will know what the class involves. Being able to identify student's needs and personalities early can help you keep the entire class on track, I love the micro-summary at the end of class idea.
One of the things that I learned is to set expectations for the students. This way the student will know what the class involves. Also if you have students that are not doing very well. Take extra time and try to use different techniques in communicating.
learning on how to deal with a variety of different students, having a way on getting everyone involved and on the right track for the greater points of the lesson. being able to speak with them and give them Oppurtunites to speak their peace on the matter that is their connection to the lesson.
Engaging with the students, one on one time, partners/groups can help if a student is struggling. Different ideas from different brains could work or understand better.
Every student is different; some may have more weakness or strength than others. Identifying this and having a good balance will help keep the classroom as a whole.
I have learned that defusing the situation without making the student feel like they are not being heard is my number one priority.
I learned about different types of students and strategies on how to manage each type. One common thread I noticed on how to manage each type of student was to have conversations with them. Many times the issue is that they either don't know what is expected of them, don't see the value of what they are learning or have not yet developed responsible skills.
At the post secondary level, this content have much applicability. Almost always, students are paying to have a seat in the class and so they want to be there.
