Tufts Blogs

Although I have had the fortune of avoiding any hardcore STEM courses in my Tufts tenure, I have heard the testimonies of many friends forsaken to this fate. Having attended classes twenty-strong in high school, the transition to petite humanities courses was hardly challenging. However, I understand that, for those unaccustomed to such sizes, these intimate seminars might seem daunting. While I typically maintain an active classroom presence, I have recently embraced the unique position of the ‘observer.’ As many might know, classroom participation is heavily encouraged, and often graded, in smaller seminar or lecture classes. Yet, particularly for those students acclimated to larger lectures wherein participation can be forgone, participating, especially in such intimate spaces, can be frightening. In my recent experience as this ‘observer,’ I have collected three techniques to ensure that, in these smaller seminars, one can effectively and comfortably participate.

First and foremost, assignments must be completed! Although, to many, this might seem irrefutable, I have noted that some students enter the habit of ignoring homework under the presumption that participation is optional. At the very least, students should arrive with an elementary understanding of the content for discussion. Now, in the eventual moment of participation, the student will productively contribute to the conversation—quality over quantity. In other words, one quality contribution will satisfy your participation grade for that class.

While I would not recommend mincing your words when keying in the discussion, try not to fear answering. Anxiousness is normal, but you are intelligent—trust yourself. Most of your classmates are likely more concerned with their computers than your comments. Besides, your professor is the one who writes your grades. I find that befriending your professor reaps better rewards than any friendship with my compatriots. Other than the occasional “how was your weekend,” no need to feel pressured to make small talk.

The last technique is the key to unlocking perfect participation—introduce some words key to the discussion; explain both your emotional and intellectual reaction to the subject; then use questions to expand the conversation. Ultimately, this formula will ensure that your participation is both genuine and intuitive. Not only will this (potentially) boost your grade, but the class discussion will improve. While adopting the role of the ‘observer,’ I discovered that, in those pauses between discussions, I can really ponder the material. Listening to lectures or conversations can provide so much information—you need those moments to pause and process.