Class Participation

As mentioned previously, class participation is essential in many Penn State classes and often makes up a portion of your final grade. Participation can look different from classroom to classroom. In a small classroom, participating may mean raising your hand to ask questions or provide your thoughts, talking in small group discussions, or even nodding and making occasional eye contact with your instructor. In a larger or online classroom, participation may look like answering practice questions with an iClicker device or responding to your classmates in a digital forum.  

 

Tips for effective participation

Come prepared

Do the required reading and brainstorm possible questions and discussion topics before class so that you are prepared to contribute. You may participate in your class starting with statements such as “This reading reminded me of…” or “While reading, I was thinking about…” 

 

Think critically

Many questions are likely to have more than one answer. It is okay, and even encouraged, to think creatively and to propose alternate solutions.

 

Make connections

As you participate in discussions, make connections to previous experiences, other classes or topics, or class readings.

 

Participate

Remember that participation is highly valued, encouraged, and often expected in class and that you are an important part of the class experience for all students. Your thoughts and ideas are important and valued.