Standard Presentation (25-minute) Speak Up: Two Techniques to Increase Student Engagement and Participation more

Sat, Sep 16, 16:00-16:25 Asia/Tokyo

Devising ways to increase student participation is a frequent goal of English instructors. In Japan, where students at the tertiary level are often enrolled in mandatory English courses, motivating students to speak voluntarily in class can be a challenge. The presenter will describe and discuss two techniques he has used for increasing participation: the use of question cards for class presentations and a participation point system. Question cards can encourage students – especially those at lower skill levels – to pay more attention during classmates’ presentations and to engage with presenters following presentations. The participation point system motivates students to become active learners by providing a direct link between their active participation and the participation points they earn as part of their course grade. Using this system, students can earn points throughout the semester by raising their hand to volunteer an answer, by making a comment, or by answering a question when called upon to do so by the teacher. The presenter will describe details of how each technique is carried out, as well as possible variations and potential pitfalls to avoid.