Encourage Participation in Discussions

Teaching Tip

Create a safe space.
Allow time for reflection.
Set discussion ground rules complete with consequences for breaking those rules.
Inform students that a percentage of their grade is based on their classroom participation.
Control discussions so no one student monopolizes the classroom.
Verbally reward participation.
Ask open-ended questions.
Allow time for reflection.
Clarify any confusing comments.
Call on nonparticipants.
Utilize a variety of discussion formats.
Be tactful whenever correcting a student.
Resist responding to the students’ comments.

Avoid repeatedly calling on the same people.
Summarize students’ ideas on the board or overhead transparency.
Point out the similarities and connections of students’ comments.
Make sure the discussion topic is relevant and interesting.
Utilize small group discussions as an option or a prelude to a full class discussion.
Use eye contact to provide feedback and maintain classroom management.
Ask follow-up questions to a student’s question or comment.
Whenever a student asks a question, make sure everyone hears it: repeat the question and rephrase it, if necessary.