‘Some students thrive on the opportunity to share their voices. They embrace the thrill of standing before their peers and reading, debating, or demonstrating. Some students, however, do not.
As a teacher, you have likely had both of these kinds of students in your class before, and it can be difficult to figure out the best way to engage your shy students in classroom discussions and activities.
The first thing to consider when increasing students’ willingness and ability to participate is the classroom culture around mistakes. Many students are afraid to speak up because they are afraid of what others might think or say about them.’
(https://www.edutopia.org/article/encouraging-shy-students-speak-class/)
Supporting shy children in the classroom requires lowering social anxiety while gently building communication confidence through predictable, inclusive routines. The goal is to make these pupils feel secure enough to participate without forcing them into an uncomfortable spotlight.
Lowering the Pressure
Social Engineering
Building Confidence
This blog was written by Bretta Townend-Jowitt, Education Consultant and Trainer.
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