Student Participation

Student participation brings a lively dimension to any class. Unfortunately, many students are reluctant to participate. Here are some ways to encourage student participation.

• Make your goals for the class session clear.
• Ask questions that require more than a simple “yes” or “no” response.
• Emphasize to students that any question they ask is a good question. Rephrase questions whenever needed.
• Encourage students to respond to other students’ comments.
• Assign a student in advance to lead a class discussion.
• Don’t let one or two students dominate a class session.
• Engage the students with material that is interesting and relevant to their lives.
• Be active yourself. Maintain eye contact and move about the room.