Tips for Students to Participate Better in Class

In high school and college, many teachers offer extra credit for class participation. In fact, some professors even offer participation credit that is worth more than the midterm exam. These reasons make knowing how to participate in class an essential academic skill.

Unfortunately, many students do not know what it takes to participate effectively. Far too many people think that asking a silly question or offering a useless anecdote count as class participation. The key is for all comments and questions to be meaningful. The following list outlines the basic steps to become an interactive, successful student.

PREPARE FOR CLASS

This first tip is the most important since it is virtually impossible to participate effectively without some background knowledge on the subject. Many teachers assign reading to be done before class - do it! If the teacher does not assign any reading, refer to syllabus and do some of your own research. Feel free to browse through the textbook and focus on the topic that will be covered during that week in class. Another great tip is to make a list of questions you have, after reading the material. The teacher is likely to answer most of the questions in class, so pay attention and cross out questions that have been answered. At the end of class, ask remaining questions. You can also make notes ahead of class to remind yourself of any comments or relevant anecdotes you would like to contribute.

PAY ATTENTION IN CLASS

If you are not paying attention at all times, you run the risk of embarrassment and useless participation. You definitely want to avoid repeating a question that has already been asked or bringing up something irrelevant. Make sure to listen to both the teacher and the students and take notes if necessary.

BE ENNTHUSIASTIC WHILE PARTICIPATING

Of course, you can participate in any way you like, but you are likely to receive a better grade if your input is coherent and interesting. Do not tell run on stories and do not try to show off. This is not the time to boast about unrelated knowledge or try to impress other students. There is no need to ramble about facts or to be a know it all. If you have a relevant personal experience, tell the story succinctly and try to make it interesting. You can also bring up related topics if you feel they might be an interesting starting point for a class discussion.

Any student can be an effective participant in the classroom if he/she follows the above steps.

 

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