140 likes | 320 Views
Techniques for fostering effective dialogue in the classroom. AfL can only operate effectively in classrooms where there is a climate of trust and openness. One key factor needed to develop such a climate is effective dialogue.
E N D
Techniques for fostering effective dialogue in the classroom
AfL can only operate effectively in classrooms where there is a climate of trust and openness. One key factor needed to develop such a climate is effective dialogue. The aim of this section is to share some techniques that can lead to effective dialogue.
Netball not ping-pong Teacher, pupil, pupil, pupil, pupil, pupil, teacher, pupil, pupil, pupil, teacher Teacher, pupil, Teacher, pupil, Teacher, pupil, Teacher, pupil, Teacher, pupil, Teacher, pupil
Be a role model Constantly demonstrate how to respond to student answers. Show how to reflect, treat answers with respect, when to offer support and how to deal with bizarre answers.
Make use of resources Try and find a good resource to stimulate discussion.
Wait time The teacher does not give immediate feedback on student comments – this gives other students chance to think and respond. Longer wait time needed for higher order questions.
No hands up The teacher selects the contributor to ensure that everyone plays a part. When a student cannot/will not answer say you will come back to them later.
Listen in on paired and group work Pick up ideas from groups and then draw upon them in whole class discussions.
Teacher cues Teachers should prompt responses but not shape them. e.g. Does anyone have anything to add? Does anyone disagree with that?
Use “Rich” Questions High-order question require more thought and demand longer responses. This can lead to richer dialogue.
Break down big questions It may be necessary to break down big questions into smaller, but nonetheless meaningful questions. Use the answers from the smaller questions to build up an answer to the original question.
Correct answers Never accept a correct answer without some explanation or reasoning. This checks understanding, stimulates discussion and helps other students understand the topic.
Wrong answers Use wrong or partially correct answers to stimulate discussion and challenge misconceptions. Feed additional information to students who make mistakes and then encourage them to rethink their ideas.
Acknowledge risk Acknowledge and value the fact that students are willing to take risks when answering questions. Encourage students to build on risky answers.