I have been thinking about the terms participate and engage
a lot lately. I was recently at a
conference about best practices in teaching and a small debate was started
because the terms were used as if they were the same. Being
in curriculum and working with teachers, I know that they often think students
that are participating are also engaged.
Are teachers evaluated on the number of students who participate or how
many engaged? Is there a set understanding and clear expectations of what
participation and engagement is or looks like?
I wonder how many educators know the difference between the two terms. Below are a set if definitions for each
term. See if you can match the terms to
the definitions.
To take or have a part or share, as
with others
To occupy the attention or efforts
of a person or persons
To be involved with others in doing
something
To get and keep someone’s
attention, interest
How would you describe the following student examples in
terms of participation and engagement?
A.
Student listens
to teacher, answers all questions correctly when called upon, no behavior
problems and quietly completes all his work.
B.
Student listens
to teacher, raises hand to answer questions, but answers are not always
correct, ask questions about concept that are beyond the lesson for the day,
constantly talking to classmate about today’s lesson and does not complete all
his work.
Can you have participation without engagement?
