How can I best keep conversation flowing without lapsing into long silences or a lecture?
In one study, instructors waited on average 0.9 seconds before calling on a student or answering their own questions. Silence is an important factor to be in control of in the classroom. Americans are uncomfortable with silence and 10 seconds can seem like an hour. We recommend that you count to yourself while you are waiting for students to answer a question. Few students can come up with any answer in 0.9 seconds, and in our culture, white males are much more likely to be the ones who do. To give women and minorities a chance, push yourself to allow for some silence. At worst, if the silence drags on for too long, some student is sure to answer if only to come to your rescue. Being aware of the value of what is known in the literature as “wait time” can help you to allow your students the time they need to come up with intelligent answers. If all of your students are reluctant to speak up on a regular basis, it may be that they are afraid of being embarrassed by saying something “stu
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