Dear Gabby,
My Interpersonal Communication class is populated with overachievers.They are all competing with each other to answer the teacher’s questions first before any of their fellow students have chance to answer. Part of our grade in this class is dependent on our classrooms participation.My problem is I cant get noticed and never get a chance to answer the teacher, so she has no idea that I have studied the material and come to class fully prepared.
My question is what can I do to stand out in such a competitive class and assure that I receive a good grade in the participation portion?Sincerely,
Unnoticed from New Hampshire
Dear Unnoticed from New Hampshire, Life in general will always be filled with competitive people and people who want to get ahead in life no matter what it takes. This is a great lesson to learn, not only to succeed in class, but also in life. There is always going to be someone willing to step on your toes or someone who might know as much as you, but fights for the top. I think the most important thing to do is keep studying and focusing on mastering the material.Even though the teacher might not verbalize your success, I am sure it doesn’t go unnoticed.
In order to show you’re well prepared and participating in the class, is making your voice heard in the class. Sometimes we have to get out of our comfort zone and present ourselves in a different way than what we’re used to. I have had teachers tell me to go the extra mile and write two more paragraphs, or do a more in-depth presentation to make sure I stand out. I think it’s also important to create a working relationship with your teacher. Let he or she know that you’re working hard on your projects, or email questions directly to them, and then approach them after class about—this way they can put a face to the name they received from the email.
The worst thing you could do is sit back and not participate because others are willing to speak up. Use a question that your teacher to help further your interaction in class. Perhaps it might be that you start a debate about the question, or that you have another view about a certain topic that is being discussed in class. I think classrooms should be used as a discussion tool, not just a room where we sit and listen to a lecture.
Use the time before and after class to get to know some of your classmates as well. I think this is a big advantage because once you’re comfortable in the classroom with other students, things tend to feel less tense. Use this class to help develop your self-concept skills, while learning how to stay motivated to reach your highest potential, not only in this class, but in life.
Good luck,
Gabby