Those of us wishing to expand our knowledge of the world, and likewise our employment prospects, expect and are willing to incur the costs of higher education. Besides the money for tuition and books, we all spend countless hours reading, doing homework, studying or in labs and recitations. The actual lecture and classroom time is somewhat minimal.
Some of the better professors like to open up this time for discussion. This can yield benefits to the class as a whole, or can unnecessarily waste the time of all involved.
These are a few common problems with how students approach class discussions. I’ve definitely been guilty of them at one point or another.
Students that want to share their unique experiences and insights are probably the most frustrating. “Well, when I studied abroad,” or “But when I read about that in The Economist,” are signals that other students should be impressed with the following statement, not that it is of any importance. Limit what you’re saying to the point that needs to be made. Including outside information or diversionary tangents will actually cause the professor to call on you less.
Vague and overly simplistic answers to a professor’s questions are also a big problem. If she asks the class, “What should the U.S. do about Iran?” you shouldn’t just say “Use diplomacy! War would be awful!” The next question is obviously why or how you would do that. Why not save everyone the time and be thorough?
By all means, pay attention to others. It’s embarrassing and time consuming for a student to raise a perfectly reasonable and helpful point only for the professor to have to remind him that it was already raised 20 minutes ago.
Some students are passionate about the subjects they take, and it shows in discussion.
They’re the ones jumping out of their seats to talk when you or the professor brings up affirmative action, women’s rights or religion. It’s good to know that they care, but I think academic distance is a more appropriate learning strategy. And always make sure you raise your hand and that the professor wants you to speak before speaking. You’re not entitled to a rebuttal.
Students that are guilty of this time wasting usually feel like they are adding something valuable to the conversation. Instead of entering class discussion keen on satisfying your intellectual curiosity, as well as your egotistical need for attention, try to think like a professor. Try to figure out why she is bringing up this hypothetical or asking this question, and how it relates to the subject matter. This general rule will help adjust your comments to save time and help you become a better student and speaker.
