Study skills > Module
3 > Page 5
Getting heard : how to contribute
to the discussion of ideas
Material taken from Gail M. Zimmerman,
Tips for International Students, Asst. Dean of First-Year Students and
Academic Counselor, Dartmouth College
At the appropriate time in classroom discussions, don't be afraid to
voice your opinion, even if you differ from your professor or classmates.
Your opinion can and should be based on the text, other readings, class
discussions, library sources, experts in the topic, as well as your
own experience.
- in class, listen carefully to what an instructor /
teacher or other students are saying
- mark or make notes of the points you wish to answer
or discuss or question
- remember: a question is as valuable as an opinion
in the course of discussion. It shows that you are trying to understand
others, as well as be understood!
- introduce your contribution with a quick summary of the discussion
or point: "As I understand it...". Restating the discussion/author's
main idea also shows that you are trying to understand, and shows where
you are in understanding. It is very likely that if you have questions
or information, others will share them
- be certain it is clear to the class and professor when
you are summarizing and when you are giving your opinion
- try to keep your comments to the point and don't hesitate
to refer to your notes Logic is not a speed test...
- in making an argument, begin with examples from the
author or teacher (imitation can be a form of flattery), but generally
use your own examples to show your agreement with their point of view.
This demonstrates independent thinking which should be valued in an academic
setting
- after you have spoken, it is appropriate to ask for
feedback if
- others understand what you have said
- if others agree/disagree with you
Demonstrate openness and dialogue: you should score points with
your professor!
Assumptions
- a sense of competition underlies the informality of some classrooms
- voicing a well-informed opinion is important to your overall academic
evaluation
- first listen and try to understand other's opinions: respect theirs,
and insist on being respected for yours
- evaluations are made by instructors / teachers / professors throughout
the course / semester: final grades are not simply determined by your
score on the final exam
- focus your contribution on your analysis of the topic, your reaction,
your opinion, and finally your openness to understand others.
